《Regressor, Possessor, Reincarnator》
Chapter 1
Chapter 1
Cant you see theres something wrong with him?!
Bang!
Allen mmed the table despite his father being present. It was disrespectful, yet his father remained silent and stared back coldly. Just as Allen was about to part his lips, his father softly asked in reply,
Allen. Are you Allen Reinhart, or my son Allen?
Allen couldnt understand the purpose of that question. Allen and Allen Reinhart. Both of them were him. It couldnt be separated or understood differently.
Your son Allen is me, just like Allen Reinhart is me.
Right.
His father grinned cynically.
In that case, if the two cant be differentiated Does it matter which one it is?
I dont underst
Allen couldntprehend any of that.
You see
His father spoke with a soft smirk.
I am willing to do anything for the sess of this family. Even if that means
Themp died and a shadow fell over his fathers face.
The devil takes over my sons body.
Allen couldnt see his fathers face at that moment, but
He could tell his father was smiling.
* * *
I was a bad brother. Yes, a pathetic older brother who envied his younger brother. So to me, Julius was nothing but apetition for the position of heir. His jolly personality contrasted with my rigid personality, and his outstanding magic talent made me feel inferior. As a result, I didnt like him.
It was an obvious result, since even the servantspared us. I grew sick of theparisons that started before I could even remember.
Allen, if you are free, will you
No, Im not.
Even though he did nothing wrong, I was always annoyed with him.
Hehe, nevermind, then.
I despised my brother, yet my brother liked me. Thats why I still remember.
The day my perception of my brother changed. The day I decided Id live on for him. The day he gave me a grimoire when I was disgruntled from losing a battle with him.
Allen, I got my hands on this new grimoire
I was excited internally, but I yelled at him, saying I didnt need it. But he still handed it to me and ran out of the room.
I didnt want to read it, but after flipping through a few pages out of curiosity, I becamepletely engrossed in it.
When I left the room a few dayster, I wasnt even mad anymore from the thrill of reading a new grimoire. I looked for Julius to thank him, but the news I heard back instead was shocking.
The Second Young Lord apparently lost the grimoire that Grandelle, the grand sorcerer, was working on
I hurriedly went to Father with the grimoire, but it was already toote. Grandelle was furious with my brother and destroyed his circle.
The grimoire I brought eventually settled things. But whats done couldnt be undone.
Julius must have expected to be punished for taking Grandelles grimoire, but he probably didnt expect his circlewhich was practically a sorcerers lifeto be destroyed.
That fool. Taking such a reckless action just to make me feel better.
That was the first time I ever saw him cry.
And from that day on, he changed. He indulged himself with liquor and women and grew violent. Even so, he tried to act alright in front of me.
The Second Young Lord who was benevolent and kind to everyone was gone. All that remained was a ruffian hiding his true, rotten self away.
But why? Why?
What do you think youre doing here?
This ce was only permitted to those affiliated with House Reinhart.
Who are you? Why? How?
Its not a ce for someone like you.
The training ground went silent at Allens voice.
As I entered, Julius slowly turned towards me. The face of my brother. But it was a different person inside.
Ah, Brother.
He was sweating, seemingly training with the soldiers. His restricted breathing and movements
As well as the scent of mana.
Thest strand of hope Allen had of Julius still being in there died immediately when he sensed the magic powering from his brothers core. Julius had a talent for magic and kept active, but he didnt enjoy training.
Bute on, swordsmanship? Hah.
This isnt like you. I expected you to be drowning in liquor like usual. Why are you out here?
Haha Allen. Im trying to be a better man.
The bastard chuckled and scratched his head.
That sight of him infuriated Allen. Julius would never chuckle like that.
As a nobleand because he was nobleJulius paid close attention to his words and actions and was way too clever for his age in social situations. To avoid pressuring the soldiers, he would avoid visiting them unless it was necessary and always used their exclusive training court instead.
Howd he expect not to be discovered when hes acting this differently?
Allen looked over to the knights in the training ground. They had guarded Julius long before he changed. They were the ones that would notice even the smallest changes in his breathing, gait, and attitude. Yet the very ones who made an oath to serve him
Hah.
turned a blind eye to this.
The bastard approached with a grin on his face.
Anyways, what brings you here?
Forget it. I find it unnecessary to tell you.
Allen turned and walked away without waiting for Juliuss answer.
Years had passed since.
As if trying to prove he was changing, Julius made many aplishments. He found several undiscovered dungeons and prevented disasters from urring, as if he knew the future. Coincidentally, he even saved a youngdy from danger and found talented people who didnt even know they had talent. Above all, he made connections with the royals and strengthened the familys stature. Rumors said he traveled the world now and continued to prevent disasters.
Father finally epted him and started praising Julius as if he were his biological father.
Allen loathed the whole situation.
Do the others know? What he does behind that mask. How he views people.
It wasnt obvious to the untrained eye, but Allen could see it. The hideousness he hid behind that smile.
While Julius grew famous, Allen only did one thing. No, it was the only thing he could do.
Study magic.
The servants started talking about how the First Young Lord had gone mad for magic or that he had ventured into the forbidden magics, but Allen didnt care. That much humiliation no longer had an effect on him.
Too many have forgotten you.
Most of the people of the manor started praising Juliuss aplishments as if they had forgotten the real Julius.
And their father?
Their father didnt care if Julius was his real son or not. He was blinded by his greed and desire for power.
As for their mother?
She was a lost cause, ever since Julius startedvishing her with luxuries. She used to be a humble person, but those luxuries were more than enough to change her. Now, she would abandon her duties to be a part of high society.
And the knights?
Even the ones who knew Julius had changed started following him, just because of his morous achievements. Once one started to follow, the others followed with ease.
If I, your brother, cant save you who would, now? So
Hold on a little longer.
* * *
* * *
Allen proceeded with his studies.
Conjuration, dimensional studies, soul separation, soul resurrection, contract studies, summoning contracts, teleportation, and more. He studied a wide variety of fields.
While doing so, he looked for cases simr to Juliuss, but it was a fruitless endeavor. The only cases close to this were possession by demons or ghosts.
Allen even secretly invited a priest to confirm that Julius was not possessed, so Allen grew more impatient.
He needed more data.
Way more.
Fuck!
There was too little information. Actually, it was his own capabilities that stalled the progress. If he had a little morejust a tiny bit more creativityhe would have finished the spell.
Allen had already changed the goal of his research a long time ago. If whoever was inside Julius couldnt be identified, perhaps it would be better to have the soul and body separated. From then on, the research made progress and was now on the final step ofpletion.
However
Not talented enough, am I? Ha Hahaha.
After everything he had poured into this research, only one little obstacle prevented him from reaching his goal. The familys support had all transferred to Julius, and since Allen only stayed in his office, he was no longer considered a suitable heir. He spent hisst penny on this research.
If I fail in this If I fail
No one would remember Julius. And whatever he Yes.
Im the one who ruined your life, so now I must be the one that saves you, right?
Allen picked up the red book and snickered. He didnt have a choice anymore.
* * *
Evil was repaid with evil. And the final cost of a deal could even be death. Allen chewed his lips and despaired.
Devil! Isnt this enough? I have already sacrificed a lot!
He had thought that just a little sacrifice would be enough. However, he had to sacrifice many times what he expected. And by what he had heard, Julius had started investigating.
As his heart raced from anxiety, the devil who was slicing up another piece of flesh spoke.
Alright This will do. Contractor, you have
Just as the magic circle began to glow scarlet red and the contract was about to be made
Burst
Of course Its you.
The bastard who barged in scanned the room. The floor was flooded in blood, and there was a pile of skulls on the altar along with unidentifiable pieces of flesh. Julius parted his lips as if he had expected this whole thing.
I know you have been getting loans from the merchants under my name.
Behind him stood holy knights and priests all wearing the same appalled expression.
But still I let it slide since were family, after all.
As soon as he heard the word, Allen couldnt retain his anger.
If I knew you would have used it like this
Family? You, my family? What about all the hideous things youve done? What have you done to Julius?! You thought I wouldnt notice?
What do you
Allen scoffed at the bewildered look on his face.
Did you really, genuinely think your act was perfect? That you tricked Father, Mother, and the knights? And me? Hah, hah.
While the bastard was flustered, Allen shouted.
Devil! Finish the contract!
Allen knew the devil was done with all the preparations the moment the door had broken open. The devil was probably just waiting for Allen to die so that he wouldnt have to make the contract.
Keke, fine. Contract made.
The devil pressed Allens head with his bloody hands, and his head filled with what he wanted mostthe little piece of inspiration. As soon as his head cleared up, he embodied it with his magic power. His magic power swirled and formed a translucent sphere.
S-Seize him!
The holy knights and priests moved at his words, but it was already toote.
No.
You arent toote.
Stab
Allen sensed the cold de pierce through his heart. The bastard was standing in front of him.
Yes, so you have talent equivalent to my brother.
But I
calcted it.
Blood poured out from his heart. Allen turned pale, but his smile was radiant.
It would be unbrotherly of me not to know my brothers talents.
He transmitted all his remaining life into the spell.
Whatd you say?
The bastard moved away, but Allens blood already formed a barrier that would hold him for a moment.
Would it be able to hold him for a few seconds? But that much is
So
Enough.
Goodbye, you fucking
Allen closed his eyes.
Ounder.
The effort he poured in for this moment as well as his memories shed before his eyes.
And
For Julius
A kind, yful, and talented soul.
My dead brother.
For Julius Reinhart.
The translucent light turned into a sword. And with the stroke of Allens hand
Cunt!
It split him in half.
Then, along with a sound of a crash, blue smoke escaped Juliuss body. At that exact moment, something struck into the body. Allen looked at the twitching body and closed his eyes in peace.
[You must kill]
He felt like he heard something. When he opened his eyes again
Allen? Why are you still standing there?
You.
The bastard stood in front of him, smiling.
Chapter 2
Chapter 2
Allen red into his fathers eyes.
Cant you see theres something wrong with him?!
Bang!
He uses the codex no one in our family could use! He acts as if he had forgotten all court manners! He says he lost his memory, yet he has so many biases!
Allen reenacted his past actions and mmed the table.
I know you notice it!
Same date, same actions.
Allen. Are you Allen Reinhart, or my son Allen?
The same question again. The same uncanny question.
Your son Allen is me, just like Allen Reinhart is me.
Right.
His father grinned cynically.
Allen wondered why his father came to such a conclusion. He looked up at his fathers face. He was far younger than thest time Allen had seen him, but he had the same cold eyes.
In that case, if the two cant be differentiated Does it matter which one it is?
I dont underst
Allen already knew how this conversation would end, but he couldnt stop asking and answering the same thing.
You see
His father spoke with a soft smirk.
Allen wondered what amused him. Perhaps he wasughing at himself for remaining silent? Or perhaps he was pleased with the power he would acquire in the future? Allen couldnt understand his father, nor did he want to.
I am willing to do anything for the sess of this family. Even if that means
The sess of the family? Hah. Allen smirked bitterly.
The devil takes over my sons body.
Would he smile this time too?
Allen could have checked if he wanted, but he chose not to.
Even if its
Instead, he forced out the question.
Your son?
Father answered somberly.
Yes.
There were many things Allen wanted to say. Such as his father being a hypocrite for being willing to sacrifice family for the sess of the family. And that Julius truly belongs in this family.
However
Understood.
He didnt say anything.
Because he knew it would be like talking to a wall.
Then, I hope you wont interfere with my actions from now on.
Since no words would get through to you, Ill show you instead.
His father didnt reply.
* * *
Creak.
Allen walked out of his fathers office. Contrasted with his violent movements, his eyes were tranquil. It had already been about two weeks since he had regressed into the past. He couldnt believe it initially. Actually, who possibly could?
To observe the differences between the past and present, Allen spoke and acted slightly differently than he remembered he had. And he finally reached a conclusion.
Regression, huh
His high and immature voice proved it.
Allen himself couldnt believe it, but he had to admit that he had regressed into the past. The oues turned out a little different than he remembered. Words, actions, facial expressions.
But Father is still the same.
Allen had looked forward to this day in hopes of seeing a change in his father.
But he was the same as always. A father who wished more than he could bear, a father who put power before family, and a father who would give up his son for it.
What did I even expect
Allen let out a bitter scoff and turned away. There wasnt enough time, and there was so much to do. This was no time to get sentimental.
* * *
* * *
There was a rumor spreading in the Reinhart manor.
Hey, have you heard? The scoundrel lord apparently changed?
Hes been pretending the whole time.
Even between maids.
The young lord finally came to his senses
I heard he even quit drinking!
Even between servants.
Its a relief The lord anddy have been worried sick.
Seems like he finally decided to improve.
As Allen wandered through the manor, his feelings got moreplicated. The people of the manor were heartened by the new Julius.
Even though it wasnt the real him.
I already felt this emotion before, but its still as nauseating.
Allen knew that they did nothing wrong. In fact, they had had to bear with Juliuss violence before he changed, so they had every right to be d.
But even so
They had seen him ever since he was a child. Yet how could they not know? Not even notice?
The young lord
Step.
He could hear a maid speaking on the other side of the corridor. When he turned to her, she saw him and shut her mouth. Allen immediately turned a corner and hid.
A ring started spinning in front of his chest. When the ring stopped spinning, his hearing senses enhanced. Any sound within three meters from the ring could be heard clearly.
Is he gone?
I dont hear his footsteps, so I think so?
Allen closed his eyes and focused.
Then continue the story. What about the young lord?
Well, dont you think the young lord is like a totally different person now?
What do you mean?
The servant beside her hurried the maid.
Even if he had lost his memories, theres this energy, you know? Like that persons temperament.
Enough with the difficult words. What are you suggesting?
Youve been working here long enough, so youd know too. How Young Lord Julius was like before. He used to be a kind and gentle man
Right.
But now its like hes pretending? As if its not really him, but hes possessed by something
Whoa, are you out of your mind?
The servant hurriedly shushed her.
No, but really
The maid retaliated, but the servant refused to hear any of it.
Then you want the old young lord back? Get beaten when hes bored, constantly living in fear of his next move?
No
If so, shut your mouth and convince yourself that he found his old self again. If there is truly something wrong with the young lord, the lord would have done something about it.
Thats true.
The maid nodded and together with the servant, left. After they had left, Allen leaned on the wall.
Changed
They just want to believe that the scoundrel young lord finally got back to being his old, benevolent self. And that it was the only reason he had changed. They didnt want to live in difort, so they refused to think any further. Allen didnt think to punish them in any way.
If anything, he was just a little
Disheartened.
* * *
Allen walked aimlessly and arrived at the training ground. There were many servants and maids gathered at the entrance, all looking at something. The loud noises brought Allen back to his senses, and he started walking towards the crowd.
So, look there Gasp!
When Allen approached, the servants faces dropped. They were uneasy since it looked like they were cking off. He reassured them with a smile.
Its alright. I wont punish anyone.
Their faces were still uneasy.
What are you all here for?
Uh We heard Young Lord Julius was challenged by a probationary knight.
Julius? With a knight?
Right. I remember this.
Allen nodded to the servant and answered.
I understand that you would be curious about the battle. So, Ill allow you all to watch. But once its over, you will all return to your duties. All right?
Yes, milord. Understood.
Allen slid past the servants and entered the training ground. The battle hadnt started yet, but the atmosphere was getting heated. Only two men stood at the center.
My Lord, if I win, you must apologize for insulting the knights.
Fine. Then if I win, you will serve under mymand.
One was a bright-blue-haired chubby boy, and another was a probationary knight that had been training ever since he was a child. The probationary knight proimed with seriousness, but the chubby boy answered naughtily.
Allen frowned, sensing Juliuss magic power.
It was incredible.
Whoever that was inside Julius grew Juliuss power at an unbelievable rate.
The probationary knight, along with the other young knights, probably couldnt sense it, which was most likely why they challenged him in the first ce.
However, the knightmanders and Allen watched their battle solemnly. Since the oue of the battle was too obvious, Allen walked away.
He didnt bother to watch any longer, since he already knew.
That probationary knight bes one of Juliuss most loyal servants, right? Julius will act like he barely won and will apologize despite winning.
The servants and maids would all praise his sportsmanship and believe Julius was finally his old self. The knights would then start looking at him differently, and that probationary knight would soon genuinely follow him.
Their father would constantly test him and he would pass it every single time, increasing his fame over and over again.
Is it that day soon?
The first incident he would be renowned for.
I already decided what Ill do.
Wow!
Allen shut his eyes at the cheering. This was an act everyone agreed to y along with.
One which they all wished wouldnt end.
Chapter 3
Chapter 3
The first day I regressed, I couldnt believe it. I mean, who could?
Allen thought he was having shbacks of his life before death, but it was all too realistic to be one. The next theory he came up with was that the devil was ying with him. It was quite logical since he had interacted with the devil. However, if devils had the ability to turn back time, the rulers of this world would have been the devils, not the gods.
He also came up with the theory that the spell he used was so unstable that it changed the course of time.
Yet this was close to impossible. Within academia, it had been long determined that it was impossible to turn back time unless the whole universe was reversed.
Thest theory he came up with was simple.
His death.
Perhaps his death triggered something which caused this to happen. But Allen couldnt say for sure. Who knows if a transcendental being passing by saw him and turned back time as a joke?
Allen looked up.
Those books
There were three books floating in the air which were invisible to others. They were proof to him that he had regressed and that this past was a little different than what he remembered. These books were strange. No magic or spell could detect them, and no one but him could see them.
Furthermore, he could move them with his thoughts.
And
He reached for the white book, and it descended to his hands. It spread open slowly.
Allen Reinhart, dies at age 27.
That was the first phrase in the book.
The line that followed was longer than the first.
Allen Reinhart regresses to when he was 17. He cannot ept this fact and starts analyzing the situation.
After recalling multiple of his past experiments on people, he finally epts that he had regressed.
All the lines following that were like a record of what he had done ever since he regressed, as if someone was observing him.
Even right now.
Starts analyzing all the possible causes of this regression. After that, the book rted to is
?
Who could it be? A god? A devil? Or some transcendental being? If it was neither of those, it could be this entire world since there was no limit to imagination
Anyways.
It doesnt matter.
Whoever it was, they gave Allen a chance to relive the past. When he closed the white book, it floated back into the air. Allen looked at the other two books. Their covers were pitch ck. One of the books was wrapped with a chain so he couldnt open it, but the other book was not.
One of them is about me and the others are
He opened the book. The first line of the book was already written.
Reader Kim Woojin, 21. Possessed the extra character, Julius Reinhart, of the novel The Feast of the Reincarnated Demon King.
* * *
Allen left the room and immediately went looking for Julius. He was in the training ground. Spotting him was easy since the Reinhart familys bright blue hair was very noticeable. Allen walked into the training ground and headed towards him.
What are you doing?
Silence filled the surroundings. Allen stared into the bastards face. Still wearing the same face as Julius, but who knew what was inside.
Haha, Allen. I was just training with the soldiers.
Allen wanted to smash his face and scream as he looked at the bastards smirk.
However
Julius.
He didnt.
Allen held all the scorn on the tip of his tongue and softly called his name. The moron chuckled as he scratched his head, realizing the awkward atmosphere.
But Allen, what brings you here?
Lets go for a walk, Julius.
Sorry?
Allen now knew if he acted the same way, hed meet the same end. So he decided to change the future.
Kill.
The voice he heard at the brink of death.
I dont know if thats the real Julius or not, but I still ought to try.
However, even if the soul inside Juliuss body was destroyed, it didnt ensure that Juliuss soul would return.
Im not confident that I can fight him with my current capabilities.
So Allen smiled and asked again, I want to apologize for the humiliation I caused a while ago. Wont you go on a walk with me?
Since he didnt have to be hostile to it until he found the way to protect or retrieve Juliuss soul.
* * *
* * *
Allen and Julius headed to the garden. They could have just talked in the training ground, but Allen didnt. The reason was quite simple.
Because Julius would have done the same thing.
Julius wasnt there anymore, but Allen still wanted tomemorate his existence this way.
The two walked side by side. Magic power surrounded Julius, and his movements were restrained, ready to defend himself at any moment. Additionally, his breathing was steady.
Do I have a chance?
Even though the amount of magic power they each had was different, inside a three-meter range, Allen could overpower him.
What if I hit him with a shock wave and ambush him from the back?
Uh, Allen?
Ah.
Julius called to him.
So you were saying
Allen looked around. When he realized he had already entered the garden deep enough, he started talking.
Alright, this will do.
Allen didnt care that there were still a few maids gardening, since the conversation they were about to have would be better if it got spread around.
Exactly as I worded it.
Allen walked a few steps ahead and turned back to face Julius.
I want to apologize to you.
What?
He scowled, as if he heard something he would never have heard.
You? To me? Uh Apologize?
Yes.
Allen answered inly, but scoffed internally after seeing Juliuss bewildered expression.
Apologize?
He couldnt possibly imagine doing that before the regression, nor could he believe it right now. But if it disarmed the bastards wariness If it brought him one chance to strike
I know words arent enough, so
Allen bowed his head.
Im sorry.
He was willing to pretend he was genuine.
As if he was stating the obvious, Allen continued, I think I couldnt believe that you, once a renowned scoundrel, could have changed this much. I should believe you since youre my family. Im sorry for not trusting you and judging just by your previous actions. So, please forgive me.
The bastard stood there with his jaw hanging open.
As I expected. Since he never would have expected to hear a word of apology from me.
Allen smiled bitterly at that sight and made a sorrowful face.
I see. You cant believe it after all. Since I, who was so cold and distant this whole time, am behaving this way. I understand if youre thinking I have other intentions or that Im acting. I wouldnt believe me if I were you, either.
He flinched, as if I had read his mind. The bastard today was nothingpared to the monster he would grow into in the future. Thankfully, Kim Woojin was naive for his 21 years of age.
I dont mean for you to trust me immediately. Thats just forced. So, just watch from now on. How I act, how I change.
Allen didnt care howplicated the bastards thoughts would be right now. He aplished his goal by apologizing. Their rtionship could be defined anew from now on.
Now, excuse me.
Julius stood there frozen as Allen left the garden.
* * *
It had been more than five minutes since Allen had left when Julius started to move.
What went wrong?
Did his actions have a butterfly effect and change the original plots viin? But why? How? For what reason?
Allen wasnt a viin with a significant appearance in the story. He was just a mini-viin that would be defeated by Julius. Aside from Allen making a contract with the devil to recover Julius, there wasAh.
Is it because of that? That Allen decided to change? Since Im changing? No, but still
Considering that Allen made a contract with the devil for Juliuss health, it was right to assume that Allen and Julius were on good terms. One wouldnt risk their life to be a devils contractor if not for a deep brotherly bond.
Perhaps the original Julius was at least nice to his family? Julius scoffed.
Then why did Allen remain in the Academy?
Did hee to find a cure but turned down the wrong path when he ended up with nothing?
But still, this is
Everything started feeling unnatural, as if it had been forced into making sense.
Ugh, Im already going through enough trouble thinking of the original plot and collecting points God damn it.
You are the scoundrel of the family! Recover your reputation in 102:33:47.
Reward: 10 random potion draws
He studied the Status Window and Quest Window which were only visible to him.
Then, a maid approached him. It was Laina, a loyal maid who stood by Juliuss side even when he became the scoundrel.
Milord, what are you doing here?
Ah, Laina.
Ive heard from the other servants that you came here to the garden with Master Allen. Did anything happen?
Julius made an awkward smile.
Erm, well He apologized to me.
Really? Master Allen?
Seeing her astounded face, Julius was relieved, thinking he wasnt the only person who was weirded out by it.
Yes, Allen brought me here and apologized. He even bowed his head, saying that he feels sorry for not trusting me before
Hmm
Laina thought for a while before nodding.
If Master Allen did that Then he must have really meant to apologize.
Really? Why?
Master Allen would never bow his head unless it is required or truly his mistake. But since he did
He probably genuinely meant it.
Julius wondered, Is the original plot already changing?
Laina cautiously spoke, Also You probably dont remember, but you and Master Allen were very close when you were younger. Considering that, maybe Master Allen changed his mind after seeing your recent actions.
Hmm
Anyways, its a good thing that he did. Its a shame that you lost your memories, but You changed for the good. And Master Allen apologized to you first too.
She smiled in relief and bowed to Julius.
I have some errands left, so Ill excuse myself.
Alright. Youlle before dinner, though, right?
Yes.
After Laina left, Julius decided to just let go of his doubts and observe the situation.
Ah, whatever. Whatever will be, will be. Hes just an extra, after all. An insignificant character.
Julius headed back to the training ground with a lighter heart. There wasnt enough time toplete the quest.
Chapter 4
Chapter 4
Laina quickly and undetectably headed to the office on the fourth floor.
Knock-knock
Its Laina, sir.
Enter, spoke Gaielle, master and lord of House Reinhart, from inside the room. She opened the door quietly and entered.
Why are you here? Its far past our regr meeting time.
His face was full of doubt.
Pardon me, Milord. This requires urgent attention.
What does?
Noticing the frown on his face, Laina spoke quickly.
Young Lord Allen has apologized to Young Lord Julius.
Allen? Really? Apologize for his words?
Gaielle was shocked, recalling the argument he had with Allen a few days ago.
I calmed Young Master Julius for now. Since it was unusual for Young Master Allen I decided to report it to you, Laina said firmly.
Should I recruit more people to watch him, or
No.
Pardon?
We stop it.
She had questioned it, but Gaielle was sure of his order. He recalled the incident a few days before. The words of his eldest son, spoken using all his might to hide his spite.
Then, I hope you wont interfere with my actions from now on.
He smiled bitterly and spoke.
Dont interfere with him at all.
But sir
Ive already hurt him too much. Also, this doesnt affect our big n anyway, does it?
Laina remained silent for a moment before parting her lips.
Alright, sir. But please understand that I have to report this to Kasha.
As you please.
Laina then left the office as swiftly as she had entered. Sitting alone in his office, Gaielle softly mumbled.
My son
This was the most he could do.
So
I hope my decision is wrong.
* * *
Allen took a deep breath with his eyes closed.
The ck book he got after regressing. Allen took the elixir Julius would have coincidentallye across in the library, ording to the book. As a result, the magic power that the elixir contained flowed into his core and churned within it.
I figured out what Ill do with him.
This was just part of the preparation. There was still a long way to go, so Allen wasnt sure when it could bepleted. But he was certain it would be sessful.
Hah
The morning meditation habit he had maintained ever since he became a sorcerer was still practiced after the regression. But his meditation now was clearly different from his usual meditations. His consciousness started to sink into his internal void.
And in the void, he saw one thing: the ring on his heart.
Sorcerers called it a circle, and depending on the number of rings, the rank increased.
So since I only have one ring, Im just a Rank 1
The ring started spinning rapidly. The force it created pulled all the magic power circting within his body.
It was clearly not what a typical sorcerer would experience.
From Rank 1 to Rank 2, then to Rank 3, 4, and 5
Time was limited.
How can I increase my rank until then?
The opponent wouldnt wait for him to be strong enough.
Can I kill that bastard? Can I kill Kim Woojin?
The mana gathered around his heart started forming another ring. The magic power flowed against its usual cirction, creating mental fuzziness.
This much was
Anticipated.
The circle magic current sorcerers used was just something that developed over time. In the past, numerous so-called geniuses studied new circle magic. It was impossible for just one type of magic to exist permanently since there was constant progression.
The circle magic used now was moremonly used out of all the other ones solely because it was the safest. In the past, they used other magics and in the future, a new one would be developed. However Were all the other methods developed in the past useless?
The answer to that question was obvious.
They are useful.
Since it all depended on the ability of one to learn from previous mistakes.
The ring continued to vibrate. The collected magic power then formed a huge tornado. This ritual he started at dawn finally ended when the morning sun shone through the curtains.
Now, the fundamental preparations were done.
After washing his face in the basin the servant brought, he looked at himself in the mirror. A cold-looking young man with wavy blue hair looked back at him.
Seventeen.
He was a little young to be called a young man, and a little old to be called a boy. Allen stroked his finger along his youthful facial features. Just a few weeks ago, he had a wrinkly face and his eyes constantly quivered.
I still cant get used to my younger self.
* * *
* * *
Knock-knock.
Milord. The master awaits, we should get going now.
Alright, just a moment. Im almost finished.
Yes, milord.
Allen changed into the clothes prepared for him. If he had a maid, it would be her job to dress him, but there werent any.
House Reinharts downfall began three generations ago. Now, they were barely maintaining their ducal title.
What mad youngdy would volunteer as a handmaid to such a fallen family? Well, they could hire an expensive ve, but
If they had the money, they would have to spend it on the territory first.
He could just hire amoner, but there werent a lot of nobles who did that. The ss of the handmaid determined the dignity of the master. So Allen even rejected his mothers suggestion of hiring amoner handmaid.
As for Julius
Have they all arrived already?
The bastard had the handmaid that even his older brother didnt. Allen wondered if Julius would feel even a little out of ce for that.
Yes, theyre all waiting.
Then lets hurry a little.
Yes, please follow me.
Allen followed the servant to the dining room.
* * *
His family was waiting for him.
Pardon my tardiness.
Its alright. Take a seat, Allen, his mother said as she red at his father. Allen bowed his head slightly and Gaielle returned the same bow. Julius seemed a little tired.
Yes, Mother.
When Allen took a seat, their breakfast began.
The atmosphere of the meal was not so bad. The scoundrel brother was bing a better man, and the arrogant older brother admitted his mistakes to that younger brother, so all seemed well.
As they ate in silence, Mother spoke.
Julius, you can eat asfortably as you want, she said gently.
What? Ah, no. Im a noble, I should practice my etiquette.
It hasnt even been a month since your injury. You dont have to be so formal for now, Mother insisted.
Then, Ill try to get used to it as soon as possible.
Good.
Mother smiled, and Father didnt even bother.
Allen scoffed internally.
His mother was wise enough to manage the big and small events of the territory. How could she have not noticed that theres something so odd with him?
Furthermore, it was strange that she had suddenly begun to indulge in luxuries. Was she always a person that would abandon her family for some fortune?
No way.
When the meal was almost over, Father called their names.
Allen, Julius.
Yes, Father.
Ahem, yes, Father.
Julius hurriedly swallowed before answering. It was very unmannerly, but Gaielle ignored it.
I have some tasks for you two to handle, soe find me before the luncheon.
Understood.
Father walked out of the dining room and Mother followed him.
Im sure it isnt harmful to you two, so dont worry so much.
When both Father and Mother had left, only Allen and Julius remained in the room.
Why do you think Father called us?
Julius asked to break the awkward silence. Allen was satisfied with the fact that Julius no longer avoided him.
Well, Im guessing its for patrol of the territory.
Patrol, huh
Yes. Father must be nning to make some public movements on the recent rumor.
He looked at Allen in confusion, so Allen pointed at him and himself. Then, Julius eximed in realization.
Ah!
So I dont think theres too much to worry about.
Alright, Allen.
Then, excuse me.
Ill see youter.
Allen smiled at him and mumbled softly.
Patrol
Ridiculous.
Allens smile became bitter.
Its about time for that bastards name to be known. Father will assign him a case for the purpose of testing him. And when he resolves that, he will be more and more famous. Disrupting him now will do nothing but stall for time.
With his talent and luck, it was inevitable for him to be famous.
So Disrupting him was pointless.
Allen recalled thest moment of his death. When Julius reached him at the speed of light.
I have to be stronger. I have to equal him.
To save Julius.
He had already nned for this day. The only thing remaining was the reason to act.
Allens footsteps became faster.
Chapter 5
Chapter 5
Aaah!
Allen heard a shrill scream while walking towards the office and decided to head to its source. As soon as he turned the corridor, he saw a terrified maid and Julius facing each other.
Thats
Allen realized what this was about and hid behind the pir to observe.
P-Please d-donte closer, my lord.
Hold on, Im just trying to apologize for making you react that way
I-Its alright, sir. So please
A pleading maid and a young lord.
It looked as if a snobby young lord was forcing himself on a poor maid.
On top of that
I-I have already forgotten about it. You dont have to apologize. You were drunk and made a mistake, thats all
Apologize. Drunk. Mistake.
She spoke as if Julius had done something to her in the past. And considering her pale face as well as the way her body shivered, what happened was quite assumable.
Allen scoffed as he looked at the two.
A mistake A mistake, huh.
The person behind this cheap y was pretty obvious.
Father and an anonymous group.
It was quite obvious, noting that no one bothered toe by when such a ruckus was happening. The bastard inside Julius probably believed the maid considering Juliuss usual behavior.
Father must have approved of this for very obvious reasons.
Is it to remind him that he had made big mistakes before?
Or it could be to give him a sense of responsibility for the things he owed to this family.
The list of reasons went on and on. However, it was clear that the main goal was to manipte him into serving the Reinhart family.
Did Father n this all by himself? Or that anonymous group? Hah How revolting.
Juliuss body still belonged to Julius. Even if Gaielle wanted to manipte the bastard, this wasnt the way. They were noblemen. As such, they had to remain noble.
Yet this n ruined Juliuss already-bad-enough reputation.
Allen had no ns of letting this slide. He knew the future, so he knew how this cheap act woulde out and viewed it as an opportunity.
Whats going on here?
The two flinched after hearing a voice other than theirs.
Julius smiled when he realized it was Allen. On the contrary, the maid seemed frightened.
Allen Ive
Enough.
Allen silenced Julius, assuring him that he didnt need any exnation and continued.
Julius.
Yes?
I heard you were apologizing to the maids and servants for your past bad behavior. Is that right?
Yes, it is. After that I was going to visit Fathers office.
Allen then turned to the maid.
You. What is your name?
I-Its Amelia.
She cowered, seemingly to be intimidated by his coercive tone.
Julius signed beside him to be gentle, but Allen had no intention to.
This maid wont meet a good end.
As he remembered, after agreeing to take part in tricking Julius, she lived in constant fear of him finding out the truth and harming her for it. She eventually ran away from the manor, and in the process of doing so, unfortunately gets attacked by a group of thieves.
She managed to survive and escape, but that was it. As if the whole world wanted her to be punished, she was captured by goblins afterwards.
And she couldnt
Be rescued.
Alright, Amelia. Let me ask you something.
Y-Yes, milord?
She was pretty for a maid, and her shivering made her look pitiable.
This could have worked on other men, but it didnt work on Allen.
He asked coldly.
As far as I know, the only mistake Julius has done to you while drunk was vomit on you
Vomit?
Juliuss jaw dropped and released a scoff.
Amelia grew even paler, and her eyes trembled.
I recall you werepensated with a three-day holiday and new clothes. Along with a plentiful amount of money. I thought thatpensation was more than enough.
Uh, erm, y-yes. Youre right, m-milord.
Allens grin widened after seeing her reaction. He approached her and asked in a low voice.
If thats the case, then how did that incident be so traumatic for you to even scream at the sight of him?
N-No, its
Was his vomit so vile that it made you afraid of him? To the point of making you tremble just thinking of it?
M-Milord, I-I can exin
She genuinely trembled in fear, eyes glistening with tears.
Leave.
But
Im only going to say this once. Leave. Go to Mother and confess to her that you lied to getpensated. That you made it all up because you also wanted thepensation the other maids received.
Ah
Still here?
I-Ill leave immediately, milord
Amelia sobbed as she swiftly left the scene.
Would she know? That she could live now thanks to him? Avoid all the terrible things that would have happened to her?
She wouldnt be fired, since Father ordered her to cause amotion, but she wouldnt have an easy life either. Regardless, at least she would live.
Arent you going?
Julius looked at Allen with a nk expression. Allen pushed his shoulder softly and turned away.
Allen, just now
Its nothing. She probably wanted thepensation people were given for your past wrongdoings.
That wasnt the truth, but he didnt have to tell Julius the truth.
Since Allen would be able to win his favor with this small lie.
I see
So, be careful from now on. Its good that youre repenting, but there could be other people who will try to take advantage of it just like she did.
I understand. Thank you.
Allen patted Juliuss shoulders and headed to the office again.
There wasnt much time left until the afternoon. When the two arrived at the office, it was just before the agreed time.
Knock-knock.
Father, its Allen.
Enter.
Gaielle looked busy signing off a pile of documents. He nced at the clock and rose from his seat.
Its already time, I see. Lets have a talk somewhere else.
They moved to the meeting room that was connected to the office.
Julius remained silent the whole time, probably still thinking about what happened earlier.
Gaielle, too, didnt speak until the servants prepared tea. He just stared at his two sons silently.
Allen didnt avoid his fathers eyes.
Father would be aware of every little event that urs in this manor.
The incident where Juliusbated a knight. The fact that Julius waspensating the servants for his wrongdoings. And that Julius had mastered the codex that no one could.
It was right to assume their father knew everything happening in the manor.
As only the sound of boiling tea filled the room, Gaielle broke the silence.
I heard you two had a bit of an incident on the way.
Was he not reported with what had happened? Or was he just trying to get something out of them?
Allen smiled softly.
Its not worth your concern. A maid just caused a little trouble, thats all.
Is that so?
Chapter 6
Chapter 6
Allen studied his fathers face, but he showed no emotion.
Yes. As you know, Julius started being apologetic towards the servants, so the maid must have foolishly thought she could take advantage of that in order to obtain a portion of thepensation as well. Im sure someone instigated her to do it.
Allen smirked bitterly. What he actually meant was quite evident:
[I know youre behind this.]
However, his father answered, unbothered, as if he didnt catch what Allen actually meant.
Goodness. Seems like the house staff has gone ck while I was upied. Ill look into it myselfter.
[I dont know anything, but Ill pretend to care.]
That wont be necessary. I already had Mother take care of the matter.
[I already sent the maid to Mother before you could do anything.]
Yes. Im sure Eliza will make a wise decision.
[Really? However, it doesn''t matter.]
Do you think there could be a force that convinced the maid tomit such a thing?
[Are those suspicious people you keep contact with behind all this?]
I doubt that. Its most likely a personal motive. If such an evil force existed, it would have been reported to me.
[There is no one behind this. This is all purely her doing alone.]
As they conversed in a superficially cordial way, a servant entered with a tea cart.
Doesnt it smell unusual? Its made of tea leaves that the elves harvested themselves.
Gaielle changed the topic, leaving no opportunity for Allen to question him any further.
It does. It definitely stands out from the other teas Ive had.
Allen sniffed the teas deep aroma before taking a sip. Then, he wondered.
Was the family wealthy enough to afford such extravagance?
Allen didnt think anything odd of the family being able to retain the knighthood, since it was necessary to protect thend and family.
The tea, however
Even the meals they served were simple, so where did such money to afford tea like thise from?
Thinking about it, there was always word that the family was failing. However, the house staff was never paidte. Moreover, there was no reduction in the number of staff.
There were only rumors.
Did the family ever experience any privation? No.
Allen realized that someone else was involved in this.
I should look into itter.
Allen sat up straight and opened his eyes.
So
Hm?
What is it that you want us to do? he asked bluntly.
We havent sat down for tea for quite some time. Why not enjoy it for longer?
Theres much to be done.
Alright, then.
Clink.
Allen ced his cup on the table and looked at Julius, who seemed to be lost in thought.
Julius.
Julius?
Julius startledly looked up when Allen tapped him on the shoulder.
Y-Yes!
Tch. Im the only one acknowledging this teas magnificence.
Gaielle gave a look of disapproval at Juliuss behavior. Julius could only chuckle awkwardly, guilty for unintentionally ignoring his father as he got too engrossed in his own thoughts.
What I am about to order you two is not difficult.
Gaielle straightened his posture and hardened his expression. He wore a stern look, and his voice carried the dignity of a Lord.
First of all, Julius. I heard youve changed.
His eyes glowed as he faced Julius. Julius didnt avoid his fathers eyes and met his gaze.
A scoundrel like you changed, huh
Isnt it too drastic of a change to changepletely just from a head ident?
Gaielle didnt even hint at that thought.
Indeed. It is only right for a Reinhart.
Gaielleughed.
What was so funny?
Allen couldnt understand his fathersugh.
Gaielles face suddenly turned cold.
So, I will test you.
A test
Allen narrowed his eyes.
I received a request for assistance from the city of Hibelle. They say that a monster that was never seen before appeared and kidnapped their citizens.
Allen always wanted to know how their father knew of the danger that would befall Hibelle before it even happened and intended to send Julius there.
The situation there is quite serious, so gather some soldiers and resolve this. While youre there, renew the pledge Baron Bellourne of Hibelle made to me.
The seemingly small test turned out to be a greater danger than anticipated.
Yet the infamous scoundrel, Julius, would be able to resolve that.
One case after another, like the main character of a novel.
You can take a hundred men, but not any knights. Youll have to prove yourself to me. It could be a little rough, but it could also be a good opportunity. So
The first step to Juliuss string of grand achievements.
Do you ept, Julius?
How was that possible? How was Julius always that lucky? Allen wondered, even before his regression.
I
Just as Julius began speaking
will e
Ill do it, Allen quickly blurted out.
What? Julius looked at Allen in bewilderment.
What?
Gaielles expression turned cold as he stared deeply into Allens eyes.
Allen, what are you
Allen could see the emotions on his brothers face; confusion, anger, disappointment, and doubt.
If he said that only to prevent Julius from making great achievements, those emotions would heighten.
He was certain of it since he did the same thing before his regression.
Allen, you must have some solid reason behind that, right? Gaielle asked.
Allen recalled his past life, looking back to the actions he recklessly took just to prevent Julius from attaining honor.
Back then, I strongly insisted and finally got permission to follow him. If I couldnt prevent him from achieving such great feats, I thought that I could at least sabotage or minimize it.
If this is because of some trivial intentions
Even so, Allen had failed. Despite his disruptions, Julius still seeded, and his fame grew.
And what did I earn from that?
Did I save Julius? Had I be of any help to the family? Did I get any stronger?
No.
There was nothing.
What resulted from it was innocent, irrelevant people getting hurt. It was shameful since he had abandoned the duty of a noble.
But now
You will have to endure the weight of your own words.
Itll be different.
He had no intention to drag other people into his mission of saving his brother.
Yes, first of all
Allen nodded in agreement. He could see Julius impatiently waiting for him to continue. In the past, what he said nextpletely changed the course of their rtionship. However
I believe it is not fair.
Not this time.
Not fair?
Yes. Its only been a month since Juliuss head injury. He even forgot some of the court manners. Additionally, he doesnt even know how to ride yet.
Allen pretended to be sincerely concerned.
Allen, thats
Silence.
Julius tried to say something, but Gaielle interrupted him and waited for Allen to finish.
Of course, its a good thing that Julius began to change for the better ever since the ident, but
Allen embodied concern in his words and expressions.
It isnt fair to send him off to such a tough battlefield.
A battlefield?
Julius repeated his brothers words, and Allen nodded.
Yes, a battlefield. I got this information from a source I trust. A few unidentified monsters? There are, in fact, dozens or perhaps more that destroyed the Hibelle area.
Their father didnt even show a hint of surprise.
How could you send Julius, who is still recovering, to such a dangerous ce just for the sake of testing him?
Is that so? Gaielle curtly responded.
Julius looked at Allen fondly, not having expected that his brother would go this far for him.
The negative emotions he once wore were now gone.
Gaielle admitted to Allensment in aposed manner.
There must have been a mistake in the report I got. Alright. Lets say youre right. Then, Allen, are you confident in this task?
Allen expected his father to question the source of this information, so he felt skeptical. However, that wasnt his priority for now.
Yes.
He answered with no hesitation.
He had been given a second chance through a regression, so he would do everything he couldnt back then.
Yes, and I dont need any other support. If you allow me one sorcerer for the renewal of the oath along with the hundred men you mentioned initially, I will resolve this and bring honor to our family name.
It was all the duties of a noble as well as a promise to himself as a brother.
Fine, if its for that reason, Ill allow it. However
Gaielle contemted for a moment before continuing.
Sorcerer Prindal will apany you for the renewal. And you must pay him respect.
Understood.
Gaielle slowly nodded and faced Julius.
Then, Julius. Go west of here to Garvia.
What?
I was going to give this task to Allen. The people of the west have been dying mysteriously recently. There have already been five deaths in one town.
The west
What was the task?
Allen couldnt quite remember, since he had been too preupied with disrupting Julius.
I should read the ck book again.
The future couldnt be read, but there could be a clue in the past records.
Understood, Father.
Ill give you a hundred men as well. And I cant say for certain about a sorcerer, but Ill try something.
Father seemed to be full of thoughts.
You all must prepare now. Leave for your respective tasks in three days. You will start together and part halfway through your journey.
Yes, Father.
And you, Julius?
Yes, Father.
Julius answered a momentter.
So something called a System is there, huh
Indeed, I cant see anything.
Gaielle then left to take care of his remaining tasks. Allen and Julius followed him out to each prepare for the journey.
Just before they parted ways, Julius spoke.
Thank you, Allen. I almost would have gone through a whole hassle.
Its only right for me to have your back as your brother.
If he were his real one.
Brother Yes, of course. Were brothers, after all.
Julius mulled over the word brother a few more times before smiling at Allen. Allen smiled in return and took the first step.
Then, Ill see you soon.
Yes. Ill see you in three days, Brother.
Julius sent his brother off with a lively face and a bright voice.
Alright.
Allens voice was bright as well. However
His eyes sank coldly.
Chapter 7
Chapter 7
The test that Allens father had assigned didnt go as smoothly as before the regression.
Reasonably so.
I mean, I was forced into it
To add to that, unlike how it was now, Allen and Julius had a particrly bad rtionship. It was hard for Julius to say nice things when he could see the other''s ill intent in participating.
Insults took the ce of apologies, and kind-intentioned advice turned into ridicule.
So I began my test and carried out the first steps of my n.
Allen had originally takenmand over the military and tried to push Julius away with that power. The elder brother, having had the right of inheritance, figured that the soldiers would naturally lean towards following him.
However, things didnt go as he had nned.
Every morning, Julius trained with the rest of the soldiers, shedding his former notoriety and gradually gaining the support of the military.
Having acted differently from his expectation, Allens n couldnt progress as originally intended. The soldiers had split into factions following either Julius or Allen, ending in disaster.
Nevertheless, this time, things were going to be different.
Long time no see, Sorcerer Prindal.
Hohoho It truly has been, Sir Allen, greeted the white-bearded old man. He wore a body-obscuring robe and a long sorcerers cap, and he wielded a staff made from oak.
He looked exactly as you would picture the typical sorcerer to look.
You look to be in good health. How delightful.
Hohoho, what good health? I bet you cant wait for me to be buried already.
Of course not. We need you to live long and continue to work for the family.
How much do you think I have left in me? Hahaha.
Despite his age, Prindal wasnt the type to pass up an opportunity for some lighthearted joking.
Allen made sure to wee him privately before departing. Julius should be managing the soldiers training grounds right around the same time.
I heard the rumor that Young Master Julius has changed. However, it seems as though you have changed as well, sir.
Prindals eyes sparkled with wisdom.
The magic circting in your veins as well. And your rank Hm? Theres too much magic for you to still be considered to be in Rank 1.
It must be rted to a secret technique I uncovered in an ancient book from the manor. I was sure there was something unusual about it.
Allen humbly drew a line. Prindal immediatelyughed and apologized shortly after.
My apologies. This old man is just greatly interested in hearing of any knowledge Forgive my rudeness.
Haha, its alright. How could I me a sorcerer for seeking knowledge?
Thank you.
While still engaging in their lighthearted small talk, Allen carefully surveyed his surroundings. His father had told him that Prindal would bring along with him another sorcerer.
Did he bring another sorcerer with him? Allen wondered.
In Allens past life, Prindal brought his granddaughter in order to help her build some world experience. She was probably around Rank 2 back then.
I dont see anybody here now, but that could change soon enough. Did he bring a different sorcerer instead this time? If theyre to be of any help, then theyd need to be at least Rank 3, he thought.
Allen continued on, indirectly asking questions to clear his doubts.
Prindal, Father told me that you would bring another sorcerer with you. Where are they?
Oh, Francisca! Francisca is my granddaughter. She stopped by the training grounds first.
Wait, Francisca?
Allen tried to hide his surprise with an inquisitive face as he conjured another question.
I think wed need someone to be at least Rank 3 for them to be helpful. So, then, pardon me for asking, but would you mind telling me what rank she is currently?
He already knew how well she would grow in the future. However, as far as he knew, she should have only been at Rank 2 at this time.
Shes a Rank 4 sorceress. She wont interfere with our solving this case.
Rank 4?
Allen paused for a moment, stopping himself from leaving to find his ck book.
Im sure that I could find out all about what was supposed to be happening right now in the book.
Yet that was something that he would have to wait forter to check. First, he needed to find out more about this.
Congrattions to your granddaughter for her outstanding achievement. She could work on her etiquette, though.
The contracted Rank 5 sorcerer was present, but despite being of a lower rank, Allen didnt see her there.
Allen frowned, and Prindal, unlike how he had been only a minute ago, wore a face of hesitation.
About that
Prindal, youve done a great job serving as our familys exclusive sorcerer, but we need you to do as we ask of you.
Yes, I understand. It appears this old-timer got distracted for a minute, Prindal apologized for his earlierments and continued with a sigh.
The reason why that child went there first is because of a long-standing delusion.
A delusion?
Yes. Its something thats kept her upied for quite a while.
Could you tell me what exactly?
Of course. Though it may be rude of me
As he was about to continue speaking
AAAAHHH!
A scream resounded.
Then, a scene came to Allens mind from within his hazy memory.
Gulp.
Prindal rose from where he had been sitting and walked towards the source. Although it wasnt proper etiquette, neither he nor Allen cared.
As Allen quickly followed the sorcerer to the training grounds, he asked him, Do you think that scream just now could be?
That was my granddaughters voice. Im sure of it.
Lets deal with this now and finish our conversationter.
Thank you, Sir Allen.
After uttering his thanks, Prindt an incredibly high speed unbefitting of his old bodydisappeared in an instant.
Allen could roughly picture what had happened.
Of all things, how could I forget this?
He remembered very little about Francisca. So little that he had forgotten what had be of her.
Rather than ming himself further, he sped up to continue the search to find the cause of the disturbance. Soon after, he arrived at the training grounds.
The training grounds were silent.
The soldiers were packed into a circle in the middle of the grounds, surrounding the center wherein Julius and a woman stood in the middle of an argument.
Prindal appeared to be mediating in the center in order to prevent any major conflicts from arising.
What a relief. It hasnt happened yet.
Allen grew even more relieved, knowing that he could probably predict her behavior after seeing Julius.
Allen stepped towards the center. The soldiers surrounding the ruckus quickly moved out of his way, as if he were splitting the sea.
As he got closer, he could feel two forces crashing into each other. Mana and air, as if trying to swallow up the other, swelled around them. The situation felt like it could explode at any moment.
The soldiers couldn''t easily approach them. The pressure Allen had to bear grew as he got closer to the center.
Not yet.
I am stronger.
He focused his attention on Julius, who had been gathering his mana by his lower abdomen.
Allen quickly closed the gap between them.
No, maybe this is just an advantage that could be easily overturned even a day from now.
If this were a result of his unusual powers, it wouldn''t really be that strange for this to be the moment in which those powers were awakened.
There was already a noticeable difference in magic power between the two brothers. Even after taking the elixir, the difference between them was almost unbelievable. At best, the only aspect by which Allen could say he was better than Julius was in manipting magic and mana that he had only been able to learn after decades of research and practice.
A single, sizable ring around Allens heart started to spin erratically, producing a loud roaring sound. A gigantic mana core began to emit its power, creating a simrly loud, deep sound akin to a foghorn.
Allen took a deep breath. He had always been weaker than his brother. In the past. In the future. And even now, in the present.
But Im still
Yet he wasnt done yet.
The mana that extended from his heart stretched like a thread three meters ahead of him.
There were three areas in which he was most confident and capable:
Spatial Control, Contracting, and
Spirits.
Threads invisible to others created intricate forms in the space they upied.
Without opening his eyes, Allen weaved, unraveled, and reformedplex figures. As his threads upied more and more of the space around him, they formed to create a single object.
Though it appeared to be an instrument, it was more of a form of moving art.
And, despite it looking simr to a violin, none would hesitate to simply call it a disy of pure magic.
Thats
There stood a Rank 5 sorcerer, surrounded by his five rings. Prindal was stunned into silence. Although he couldnt see it, he could still feel it.
The feat was entirely under Allens control. It was a skill that couldnt possibly be executed by someone of Rank 1. It was almost as though
Prindal couldnt finish his thought.
Because the instrument began to move all on its own.
Like a conductor would, Allen closed his eyes and raised his hands. The strings on the instrument began to move, emitting a ringing sound.
Riiiiing.
The sound sent vibrations through the air and turned towards them.
rgh!
Wh-What?!
Everyone grimaced at the sound that seemed to be shaking their souls.
A series of rings of energy spread from the instrument, and everyone was taken aback. Only then did they, who had been concentrating on the two facing each other, change their focus to Allen.
Brother! called Julius, as if his brother were the reinforcement that he had been hoping for.
Prindal, also looking surprised upon witnessing Allens skills, remembered what he had been told earlier and was immediately convinced. Thinking that this could be the right opportunity, he followed after him.
Sir Allen, Im sorry to have caused a disturbance. Prindal bowed his head, having never had the intention of heightening the situation.
Its alright. This isnt something you need to apologize for. By the way, who is that person?
Allen turned his head to the woman standing alone.
Yes, Id like to introduce you to my granddaughter, Francisca. Prindal carefully chose his words.
The woman was still clutching her head, as though she had a splitting headache. She had dark red hair and ck eyes. She was the type of woman who would be seen as beautiful no matter who was looking.
Moreover
Even now the magic
Allen couldnt sense it back then, but he could now. He didnt know why, but she had hidden her skills before his regression.
The jewels that adorned her body circted around her naturally along with the mana.
She really was a Rank 4 sorceress, as Prindal had promised.
Juliuss eyes turned to her, and he shouted, as if tattling to his parents.
Brother, she called me a scoundrel
Allen suppressed the repulsion he felt upon hearing his words. They had gotten close over thest few weeks, but he couldnt believe that Julius had be so clingy.
Its nice that hes let down his guard around me, but
It was too different.
The way Allen remembered himpared to the way he was now. He frowned for a second thinking of just how ufortable he felt.
Did I get too close?
Stop. I get it, so move aside.
Regardless, he didnt forget his goalhis lost brother.
Alright, Brother.
Allen approached the woman and bowed to her, as the rules of proper etiquette required.
Greetings, Miss Francisca.
Within the empire, sorcerers held a semi-noble title. However, no matter how low the Reinhart family had fallen, there was no need for someone as high-ranking as Allen to bow to her.
Then again, if it would help him win her favor
If its just this once
Allen, who knew what she would be in the future, was willing to bow first. Just this once.
The Bedrock Witch Francisca. That was what she would be known as in the future.
B-Brother!
Sir Allen!
Prindal and Julius had thought that the woman who had caused the disturbance would be punished, so they were flustered to see Allen lower his head to her.
It was unexpected.
Shes already been rude enough, not having shown her face. But she even caused trouble for Julius.
Even if he held Prindal responsible for having brought her, there was nothing to say.
Francisca held a nk expression, as if she had forgotten about the pain in her head. Yet, after realizing Allens disy of etiquette, she quickly bowed in return.
Its a pleasure to meet you, Sir Allen.
After receiving her greeting, Allen chuckled lightly before asking her a question; without the arrogance typical of an aristocrat, but with an attitude that she would have appreciated in her previous life.
Would you tell me what exactly happened to have caused this disturbance?
He tried to predict why she had acted that way.
Could it be trauma?
He had caused the same kind of scene with Julius too.
It wasnt as if he didnt understand her situation, which wouldter be widely known in the future.
Franciscas expression shifted when she saw that Allen, unlike the typical noble, chose to understand the situation rather than automatically side with his family member.
She had never thought that a noble like that existed.
However, her expression remained for only a moment. Her face quickly contorted into a pretentious smile, soothing the excitement that she had just felt.
No, sir. Im sorry to have caused such a disturbance in your presence. Id heard the rumors about Sir Julius, and I apologize for my rudeness.
No, thats alright. I think its worth taking into ount my brothers reputation.
And it was rude of me to not show my face. If you choose to punish me now, I will ept that punishment graciously.
Having apologized both for her rudeness and the disturbance she caused, Allen gently forgave her.
Brother, shes not acting like she did earlier
Stop it, Julius. Dont be rude by calling her apology insincere.
Although Allen inwardly sympathized with his brother, he wasnt so thoughtless as to express it outwardly in this situation.
Youre being too harsh. However, Im also at fault here
Francisca smiled with her hand covering her mouth. Her eyes smiled as well.
Im sorry about earlier, Young Master Julius. As a sorceress, I was curious and wanted to know if there was any truth behind the rumor.
Julius regretted approaching the prodigy. Though, he still hoped they could be friends.
Even if I am annoyed, I need to get rid of that scoundrelbel. How many times does this make now?
At this rate, Kim Woojin thought he might not win over all of the main characters and supporting characters.
Well then, lets head out. It seems as though we may already bete.
That would be good.
Not wanting to cause any more trouble, Prindal quickly grabbed his granddaughter and headed towards their carriage.
Julius, lets go.
No
Its no use telling Father. Shes Sorcerer Prindals granddaughter. Just put up with it this time. She apologized to you too.
Allen always kept a smile on his face as he talked to him. He had to maintain his smile.
Ha, seriously
Whether or not his brothers persuasion was sessful, Julius just grumbled and agreed. He quickly reorganized the soldiers and boarded the carriage with Laina since he didnt know how to ride a horse yet.
Well then, lets go.
So then, the partyeach with different motivesembarked on their eventful journey.
Chapter 8
Chapter 8
The sorcerer''s workshop was filled with the scent of monster corpses and rotten corpses.
I heard sounds of people crying.
Gurgle, gurgle.
An unidentifiable potion, a sprawling heap of organs, and bound corpses. These things all together overwhelmed my senses.
Mom! Where are you, mom?!
Theyre all residents?
Sir Allen! We couldnt find any survivors. Sir Allen. Sir Allen?
argh
Who was that? Someone we rescued? Or a soldier? Jesus, they call themselves soldiers yet theyre so squeamish
aaaaargh
Oh. It was me.
As soon as I realized, I got even more nauseous.
What an awful smell.
Sobbing resounded throughout the disastrous scene. Someone was screaming out for their mother. Who was it this time? Anxiety-ridden sounds coated the walls.
The world is spinning.
Sir Allen, are you alright?
Shut up. I just need a minute to catch my breath.
I blinked. Once twice good.
Huh?
Then, I saw someone.
Ill kill them all. All those monsters. All those fucking bastards
They wore a horrifying expression, eyes filled with poison.
They came closer, turning their bloodshot eyes toward me.
Young Master, I want to take my revenge on those monsters.
Well, what am I going to do about it? Back off, of course. I didnte here just to mess with you.
Please ept my resolve. That I shall kill every monster in the world.
Why did I evene here? I shouldve just studied and researched magic normally.
Oh, magic. The magic that I needed to save my brother.
Creak, creak
Someone else is here now too.
I ran towards the door that had finally appeared to me.
I want to go home.
While on my way out, I heard a sound behind me.
lius Please take me with you
Oh Everything is red
The faster I ran, the more insistent the voices became.
She has a lot of weird tricks up her sleeve. Itll be hard to beat her. Looks like magic is the only solution.
I need to get to the manor, quicklWhat?
Young Master, please take me with you.
There, I saw her. The earth and sky turned upside down.
My study, filled with the smell of old books and ink. My research room, set aside for me and only me.
My sanctuary.
It was safe there. Unlike this godforsaken sorcerer''s workshop, there was nothing dangerous there.
But apart from that study, will danger surround me in the house?
My brief moment of relief was cut short by a ruckus from outside.
I dragged my feet back towards the entrance, to the smell of those rotting corpses.
Huh?
I saw a trampled figure on the ground. Raven-ck hair, sparkling purple eyes, and a ghastly face.
The world began to crumble.
I didnt mean to do this
Im sorry. Im so sorry I Hurgh
The gruesome smell flooded into my nose. I felt nauseous again.
Mom Mom
I heard more sobbing sounds.
I saw her again, through fragments of broken ss.
Fuck off. I need to survive.
Sob, sob
I need to I need to save my brother.
Bloody arms bound, I tried to ignore the anguished sobs surrounding me.
I opened the grimoire again. As I always had.
* * *
* * *
It had been three days since he returned to the manor.
Since the road they returned on was well-constructed and well-kept by the old empire, it wasnt inconvenient to use at all.
With the one hundred soldiers surrounding it, no bandits could approach the carriage that bore the dukes insignia, so they had a generally smooth journey.
The silence of dawn and the bustle of maids preparing the mornings breakfast intermingled.
Allen greeted the soldiers on duty and grabbed his sword. With his sword in hand, he headed towards a nearby riverbank.
After his regression, he hadnt maintained the sword skills he had acquired in his first life. All he could manage was basic self-defense.
Well, since he had lost his skills, he thought he would be better off not confronting any wandering soldiers.
Yet the reason as to why he carried his sword was simple.
Its not enough.
He was insecure. Of course, he had already begun delving into the powers that magic could grant him. Butpared to his brother?
Well, its always been like this.
Even inparing himself to the bastard inside rather than his brother himself, it was no different.
Allen had no talent.
Even if he amassed all of his familys wealth, he couldnt developor even find out where he was supposed to learnthe skills and magic quickly enough to save his brother.
Rumor had it that if you miraculously survived a dangerous situation, you would be much stronger as a result.
If you were faced with a wall, there were a bunch of lonely old people out there who would be willing to help and teach you. Even if they had ulterior motives in mind while doing so, you would still manage to get out unscathed at some point.
Can a fallen god grant anybody his grace?
The actions of this storys protagonist were questionable.
He knew about the future, so he could use that knowledge to his advantage.
Ok, fine. You do it, then. Go ahead. Do you think you can get a better oue? Huh?
Hes not sure.
Nevertheless, Ill have to keep tabs on him.
But first, Ill need to improve my sword skills.
Grunt!
He swung his sword. He cut a line straight down through the air, followed by a horizontal slice. He twisted his body as he went for a diagonal cut. He went again, cutting diagonally in the opposite direction.
Is basic proficiency even enough for now?
He channeled all of his strength into his sword.
No.
THUMP!
He was suddenly overwhelmed by his emotions. The tip of his sword rattled unsteadily.
Could it be because of the nightmare he had the day before?
Allen reminisced on the incident that had taken ce in Hibelle before his regression.
What had urred there was far worse than what had been reported to his Father.
People were being kidnapped every day.
Residents packed their bags and moved from the city to safer towns in its outskirts as the lord of Hibelle unted his ipetence by refusing to take action.
Violent attacks continued on the remaining residents due to their presence, and soldiers werent allowed to leave due to theck of safety.
Allen recalled what exactly it was that he had done there.
Under the guise of saving my brother I
Swish!
His arm trembled. A twisted blow. The imprecise sword swing created a dull sound as it failed to cut through the air.
He raised his sword again.
Julius got in the way with everything he did.
He would carry out tasks using senseless methods, but then prevent any work from being done by saying that the tasks didnt really need to be done at all.
Only now did Allen realize that Julius would have been able to strategize using abilities like Quest Window, which he had learned from the ck book.
So whats the difference, then?
If Allen had had ess to that ability, would he have even acted any differently?
He couldnt know for sure.
Regardless, the results wouldnt have been any different.
Tons of Hibelle residents died.
Every day, hundreds of chimeras would flock to the city to kill and kidnap massive numbers of people. The unprepared city would suffer lots of damage, and Julius would be the citys hero in the process of repairing it.
Or at least, thats what was written in the book.
So
Why? Did I feel bad after seeing the past that I wanted to forget? All because of a stupid mistake? Did I regret it?
Yeah.
It was all correct.
He was stupid to thoughtlessly listen and move ording to his emotions.
Remembering the shadows of their corpses was proof enough of his regret.
What was it that he saw in that chimera workshop?
A young girl who had lost her parents? Parents who had to let their children go? A man whose lover had been kidnapped?
Why am I Why am I acting like this? For their sake? It was all so I could save my brother but
At the end of the day, it was only the beginning. He did a lot of things while using that very reason as a shield.
Are you going to do the same thing again this time?
He swung his sword. He didnt use any mana at all; purely his own muscr strength.
The sword was heavy.
Was it always this heavy?
The weight strained his joints.
No.
Even though he had returned and the choices he previously made had yet to happen, his faults did not disappear.
As such, the Great Duke Reinhart
As Juliuss older brother
didnt want to hide behind the resolve of saving his brother.
He would be ashamed if he would have to face his younger brother without first resolving this problem.
The real Julius was already gone, but he couldnt turn a blind eye to what had happened before his regression if he wanted to move on.
That was why he came to this ce.
To settle things with himself. To be aware of his current standing. To take responsibility.
Can I save my brother?
He didnt think of the likelihood of sess.
Even though he had regressed, he wasnt sure if he could deal with the bastard. No, he just wasnt sure if he could get his brother back at all.
How could he kill the bastard within Julius without first knowing how to bring his brother back?
That was it.
I have to admit it now.
That his real brother was dead. Or more urately, his little brothers soul no longer existed in Juliuss body.
One of Allens magical abilities dealt with souls, but he didnt have to identify them at their first meeting.If he did it now, he could check without Julius noticing.
So naturally, he looked at Juliuss soul right away.
However
My brothers soul has disappeared.
He was sure of it.
The words that Id heard only after my death.
From the faintly crying voice that had told me to kill someone.
My brothers earnest outcry.
That was proof that his brother was still alive.
It was why he couldnt stop trying to get him back. How could he give up when there was still a chance?
But
If the current Julius tried to climb beyond my reach If I couldnt keep my distance from that bastard no matter how hard I tried
No more.
Crackle.
Allen felt light on his feet.
His steps moved smoothly, as if in tune with a beat, and the tip of his sword pierced the air decidedly.
I wont hesitate anymore.
The search for his brothers lost soul would never stop. However, the possibility of sess was, like a faint star in the heavens, difficult to reach.
If that parasites growth is a price that I dont want to pay then Ill kill him and put my brother back in him.
Chapter 9
Chapter 9
After he became firm in his resolution, Allens body rxed.
He then moved one step forward. They said that the lower body was important. But then what about your upper body? Should you try to keep it still? It made a difference in movement.
Just like his lower body, his upper body moved in a rxed manner.
No, this is
His weapon swayed.
Whack!
His bnce wavered as his sword tore through the ground. Allen sat down and began to catch his breath.
Sigh, gasp, pant
His body ached at the still-unfamiliar movements. But he couldnt stop. It was a necessary preparation. No matter how one thought of it, there was nothing wrong with being too strong physically.
You sure are training hard in the morning, arent you?
He looked back to spot a person with dark red hair approaching.
How long hadshe been watching?
Being only Rank 1 with his one ring, he wasnt able to sense her approaching him.
Peeking at other people while theyre training isnt a good hobby, Miss Francisca.
He hardened his expression. Regardless of how basic the training was
I want to do it too, though
She smiled awkwardly and pointed behind her. Looking behind them, he saw several soldiers with buckets gathered together in the distance.
They came to gather water, but then they found you here training
Oh.
He could only understand why she had taken it upon herself to visit him after seeing the soldiers.
Watching an aristocrat train without permission could be punishable by decapitation. However, that didnt mean that you couldnt just wait for them to finish with their training.
Thats why I came to see you. Though, it was very rude of me, so it would be right for me to apologize.
She lowered her head in perfect etiquette. Allen, stunned by her formal apology, nodded in response.
Since I am also to me, I ept your apology.
She gave a strange look upon hearing his calm tone and then smiled soon after.
Is everyone else awake yet? Well split up once we get through the morning.
Yes. My grandfather woke up at dawn. And that scounthe young masters maid has taken care of everything. Unlike everyone else
Although it was obvious who she was talking about, Allen smiled quietly.
So then, sir, Im a bit curious about something. Would it be alright if I asked you about it?
What is it?
Allen took up his sword and turned towards the campsite, and she followed him. She twisted her waist-length hair around her fingers.
It was obvious what it was that she was curious about.
Are you curious about how it was possible for so much mana toe from one ring?
Yes! In theory, expanding a ring increases the speed of the cirction of mana. And then, that quickly flowing mana collides with other rings and creates resonance through that collision, which then increases the output.
Passionate for magic, she grew louder as she spoke. Allen listened to her without saying a word.
Until he said it.
Did you reallye to me only to ask about that?
Wh What?
Allen still couldnt believe that her innocent expression and widened eyes were an act.
Miss Francisca. You didnte here because the soldiers needed you to, did you.
I dont know what youre talking about. Im here with the party
The campsite was noisy as the soldiers prepared to get up and move as soon as they cleared the tents.
Im not the only one you could''ve asked. Is there really no other reason why you came to me specifically?
If the soldiers saw him there, they would think about going to the other side to get water even if it took longer. Despite that, he couldnt ask her to leave just yet.
He didnt know why she was hitting a nerve. After his nightmare, he didnt want to worry about anything else.
If you arent going to tell me now, then lets go.
Her steps began to slow.
Allen didnt care much about how she reacted. It was only a short conversation.
Well then About your disrespect
Allens tone changed from his previously respectful tone to his ordinary one.
I wont tolerate it any longer.
She stopped walking.
Allen brushed against her and continued walking past her.
Ill let you lie, sabotage other nobility, ask magicians their secretseverything. So dont cross any more lines. And also
He had nothing left to say.
Although the end of his speech wasnt the cleanest, he figured that shed gotten the gist of it.
Well, thats enough.
She watched Allens back as he walked away. And in the same tone as she had before, she asked him another question.
Sir, may I ask you one more question?
Go ahead.
Do you believe in prophecies?
Prophecies Haha.
Allen pictured the ck book that hade to him. It had recorded the events of the future before his regression. Is the book a messenger of prophecy?
No, I dont believe in them, he replied tly.
Prophecies suggested that there was a predetermined future. That would mean that there would be no reason to do what he was doing. No reason to try to change the future that he had already lived.
Miss Francisca, youre quite naive despite your appearance.
The distance between them grew.
The church fell along with the ancient empire. Theres nobody left to believe in their old prophecies.
If there was a god, they wouldnt let him go against the destiny they had designed for him.
He didnt hear her answer and left her there while making his way back to the campsite.
Did she hear what I said?
Im sure she heard.
He could smell the preparations for breakfast nearingpletion, and the aroma, even from afar, excited his stomach.
Francisca, still standing where Allen had left her, was still smiling.
* * *
* * *
Francisca.
To describe her in one word is an easy task.
She was an insidious woman.
In her speech, in her behavior, and in her expressions; it was obvious that she was a woman who calcted and schemed.
Apart from the times in which she met jerks like Julius, she never showed her true feelings.
It wasnt clear when she became like that. However, it was spected that there was a scoundrel responsible for her trauma in the past.
The only reason why Allen knew rtively so much about her was simple.
Shes the granddaughter of our contracted sorcerer, Prindal. But
Due to her future endeavors, she got lots of attentionmore so than she really deserved for her abilities.
And thanks to that, the circumstances of her past became widely known; that shed had trauma in the past rted to a scoundrel.
If it wasnt because of that, then there would be no reason for herwho had already gathered four rings at such a young ageto side with the increasingly less powerful duke rather than the free city of Perta which housed many magic towers.
The same thing goes for hiding her skills.
Because of it, she was able to grow her skills and be such a freak.
She hated scoundrels. That was why she came to try to kill them. No matter what circumstances she met them in, she killed them without reason.
If she was in a good mood, she would kill them with magic. And if she was in a bad mood, she would use a club.
Regardless of age, gender, position, or ethnicity
It all culminated when she finally beat to death the son of a Master of a magic tower who had caused her trauma.
While on the run, she met Julius who was able to get her away from the Masters pursuit and then became hispanion and traveled with him across the world.
That was all Allen knew about her.
He didnt know whether there was a single event or some series of circumstances that caused it.
He wouldnt have even cared at all if the rumor hadnt involved Julius.
Ridingfortably on his horse, Allen nced behind him.
Francisca was acting normally, as though they had never had their conversation. Yet every once in a while, she would just quietly stare at him.
After she went silent, the party continued on without any problems to Hibelle, a northern city under the jurisdiction of the Reinharts.
Before noon, Julius and Prindal had made their way northwest to Gabia.
One thing that had changed was that, rather than Prindal, Francisca was apanying Allen.
Isnt it obvious?
Before the regression, Julius and Francisca werent on good terms. Since she would often quarrel with Julius, he alsoat some pointstopped tolerating her.
So naturally, the situation was bound to be chaotic.
It was amazing how the two, whod had such a terrible rtionship in the past, were able to improve their rtionship to the extent where they were able to evade the Master of the magic towerter on.
This time, however, Prindal requested Allen to apany Francisca, and Allen readily epted.
So then the party continued on without interruption. After another week of travel, they reached the foot of the Michent Mountains.
Is that Hibelle?
Arge, gray wall began toe into their line of vision.
It had been about ten days since they had set off on their journey.
They had arrived in Hibelle, the final city on the outskirts of the Michent Mountains in the northern region of their territory.
As Allen approached the city, he was greeted by the scenery that hed already experienced once in his past life.
This is
One soldier from the groups jaw dropped. Masses of refugees had gathered by the wall, creating amotion.
Soldiers loaded wagons as if in normal marketces while growing more anxious in the disturbing, warlike situation.
Franciscas expression, upon seeing the serious situation, stiffened slightly.
Allen maintained his calm face.
I wonder if itll end well this time.
When they arrived at the castle gates, the guards allowed them to pass through right away without inspection. Allen and the rest of the party were able to meet with Baron Bellourne of Hibelle immediately after sending the soldiers to the barracks.
Oh, youve finally arrived!
The middle-aged man with prematurely gray hair left a gentle impression.
He smiled, as if ecstatic that the party hade to greet him immediately after arriving at the city.
Thank you for your enthusiastic wee, Baron Bellourne.
Sir Allen, have you be even more aplished in magic? It appears even more extraordinary than before.
Oh, this is nothing.
Well now, who is this person?
After his greeting, Allen began introducing the rest of his party.
Chapter 10
Chapter 10
This is Francisca, the sorceress who will be assisting us in this case. Shes already a Rank 4 sorceress.
I am Sorcerer Prindals granddaughter, Francisca.
Sorcerer Prindal? The exclusive sorcerer?
Yes. She is his granddaughter.
Really now? The future sure is looking bright.
Baron Bellourne busied himself with praising the party without shame. He was blinded by Allens charisma and majesty and noted Franciscas beauty and talent.
Allen was modestly humble in response to his ttery.
Baron Belloure. An ipetent ruler who failed to take action until the situation got out of control. The type of noble that Allen typically loathed.
Looking at him, he began to see where they ovepped in doing things without any forethought.
By the way
Baron Bellourne made a few more ttering remarks unbefitting of the urgent situation before ncing in Allens direction.
Wasnt Young Master Juliuis supposed toe?
Haha, it seems as though you dont find me trustworthy, Allen responded, wordsden with intent to elicit a reaction from the baron. He then shook his head with an ingratiating smile.
How could you even think that, sir? I was only curious about the rumor regarding Young Master Julius. That hed changed
Just curious Hah. Thats what he had thought, but was seeing Julius once really all he wanted?
Allen sensed a bit of incongruity around him that he had never felt before.
Unfortunately, he is headed towards Gabia, in the northwest.
Thats unfortunate. My, I wasnt being considerate of our guests. Please,e in. Weve prepared Hibelles specialty tea.
It wasnt until theyd arrived and conversed in the drawing room that they finally were informed of the details of the situation.
I was briefed about the situation two weeks ago.
Allen squinted at him.
The atmosphere is different.
Could it be because the damage done to the barons territory was severe? Or was there at least something else bothering him? There had to be something wrong.
I was given news that both merchants going to and from the city as well as foragers going up the mountain had been going missing.
He dimmed his expression as if he were sad, but nobody there believed his grim facade. If he really thought it was sad, he wouldve asked the duke for help before it got bad.
At first, I thought that it was a monster attack or a group of bandits. People were dying, but isnt that just how things normally are? But
But it wasnt the same as normal?
Allen questioned him to confirm the information he had already known.
No, it wasnt. And when I sent some soldiers to investigate, they found traces of monsters. So I dered it to be a series of monster attacks, as Id previously suspected. But that wasnt the end. Missing people reports kepting.
One day, two days, three days, four days, five days, six days
It was then that I realized the gravity of the situation and began to gather the soldiers, albeit ate start. The situation was already getting out of hand. The monsters started to attack and kidnap the citizens.
After that, he began to exin about the monsters themselves.
The monsters were Honestly, a trained soldier could deal with one alone. But then the soldiers all run away immediately after they arrive. Thats all.
Heined as if he had contributed a lot in resolving the issue at hand.
What if we tried to lead them away to another ce to capture them?
When Francisca asked about trying to set a trap, he briefly replied, Miss Francisca, have you forgotten where we are?
What? Were in Hibelle, in the northern region of the dukes jurisdiction Oh.
Her expression revealed that she had just realized at that moment.
Yes. A city in the north bordering the Michent Mountains.
Hibelle City itself was created in the process of pioneering through the Michent Mountains. A city formed naturally within the mountain range, trading with the rare ores, herbs, and animal pelt found there. A city entirely surrounded by dense forests.
And within that forest, there were surely lots of creatures living there. That was why it was so difficult to move out..
If we can figure out where the mastermind behind this whole situation is, we could call in the subjugation team, but
You mean to say that would be difficult.
Yes, thats right.
It would be easy to defeat them on tter ground, but it''s difficult to track monsters fleeing in the dense forests with all the natural obstacles that the forest brought.
Even if they tried it, the forest was already overflowing with other monsters, so it was obvious that they would just be sacrificing their soldiers for nothing.
Baron Bellourne wore a regretful expression.
Allen quietly listened to his conversation with Francisca and spoke to confirm the momentary sense of difort in the room.
In that case
If the answer to this question was different from what he was expecting
What were you doing while it was getting this bad?
If the baron acted differently than he did before
Why did he do nothing?
His gaze at Allen was stained with contempt. Having witnessed the baron being very clearly held ountable, Francisca became quiet at Allens sudden confrontation.
There should have been plenty of time to evacuate the citizens.
There were a lot of viges in the area of impact. How could he have not taken any action at all?
He should be embarrassed.
Avoid all the responsibility, and shoulder all the burden.
He just wanted to hide until someone killed the sorcerer who created the chimerasthe dark secret that created this situation.
However
Im sorry, sir. It was my mistake. It is true that I failed to take proper action to handle the situation.
He didnt hide.
With a look of shame, the baron replied, We were so preupied with dealing with the refugees whod been gathering here. But I cannot use that as an excuse for myself. If I hadnt been so prideful in my own abilities, the situation wouldn''t have be so severe.
Allen closed his eyes to quietly listen to his supposed excuse of an exnation. However, unlike his appearance, his feelings wereplicated.
The Baron Bellourne that I knew would never act like this.
It wasnt like this before. The baron was double-faced. And at the end of the day, Julius caught him stealing taxes.
It looks like hes just pretending to be ipetent on purpose.
Regardless of Allens thoughts, however, Baron Bellourne revoked his previous disy of pride and lowered his head with a serious face.
We cannot stay out of this dangerous situation any longer. With your permission, we will give you our utmost support.
He gave out a very aristocratic air, as though he were fit to rule over the city.
Well then.
Allen began to speak out his intentions for thest time.
Now, would you be willing to renew the contract right now?
And, of course, Baron Bellourne agreed.
Of course. We, the people of Hibelle, shall continue to swear allegiance to the Rienhart family.
* * *
* * *
The hours-long meeting ended sessfully.
Unlike what had happened in the same situation before Allens regression, he and Baron Bellourne made constructive ns and cooperated with each other in taking measures to evacuate the residents, creating strategies to defend the city, and finding the culprit behind the situation.
It was a bit of a waste of time for Allen, though, who already knew the location of the chimera sorcerers workshop.
It really was shocking just how much Baron Bellournes behavior had changed.
It was supposed to be Juilus who saves the city on the behalf of their ipetent baron.
It was also him who did away with the chimera sorcerer in the do-nothing barons ce. Furthermore, he punished the baron for stealing the citys taxes.
Could all of that have been an attempt to have Julius appearpetent in the shadow of the barons ipetence?
I dont need to think about it right now.
He nodded.
If that was all Juliuss doing, then Allen could be sure of what he was going to be doing in Gabia.
However, Allen didnte all this way just to figure out how Julius managed to manipte Baron Bellourne.
He left the Barons mansion with only a few people.
The reason why they hade to Hibelle was to resolve the emergency there. He didnt need to get caught up by little things that he couldnt figure out now.
Francisca wanted to rest in a private room to relieve the fatigue that had built up over their ten days of travel and extensive meetings, so she stayed behind after their first day of meetings.
The city was in total chaos. Or rather, it was maintaining very little public order.
Even though the city was in the soldiers care, the residents were still very anxious.
It couldnt have been easy to regte.
Highly popted areaslike popr shopping districtswere protected by soldiers. On the other hand, areas closer to the slums had far less protection. Those areas were filled with various incidents and idents.
In the short time that Allen had been traveling around in the city, there had already been five confirmed crimesof which two were serious crimes of arson and murder.
Yet the confused Allen was walking around aimlessly because of one concern.
Just because the opponent is so capable, is it really right for us to be allowed to decide their fate as we wish?
He had been thinking about this ever since he found out about the n toe here.
He knew who would be skilled in what areas and who would make a name for themselves inbat in the future. Because of that, he knew that he could collect the seeds before they could reveal their talents and deal with them before they could bloom.
However, was that just?
Even if its wrong, whats the difference?
Didnt they already all decide to kill him? He didnt mean to hesitate on the matter to make himself look like a saint, but this was something different.
Those who he had decided to recruit in the future were those who he had known to have had a grudge against Julius from before his regression. Victims of his young brothers ignorant decisions. Those whod been forgotten in Juliuss pursuit for power.
But what about everyone else?
For example, the girl whod lost her mother and developed her own talent on her own?
Its funny that Im hesitating now that were here.
It was best to recruit people who held grudges against Julius. Through their one purpose of revenge, theyll follow Allen to the end.
Simrly, it was good to use those driven by money. As long as they were pleased with the conditions, they wouldnt hesitate to work for him.
However, when it came to those living normal lives If Allen moved quickly to kill the chimera sorcerer and the situation was settled smoothly, they could live in peace in their city, unlike the oue from before his regression.
When it came to those who would have continued on living regardless of ongoing battles and war
Is it really right to entice people with mypetence?
He would surely receive lots of criticism for what he was about to do.
Allen would deal with lots of things closely rted to Julius.
He would help his younger brother deal with various disasters and expose schemes that would someday be big threats to others. And in the process, build a reputation for saving countless people.
The more highly regarded Juliuss name was, the even more highly regarded Allens would be.
However, things may not necessarily end up as well as expected.
Because he would take him down in the end.
Regardless of whether or not he finds a way to save his brother, Allen would end up killing him.
Allens attempts to target his weaknesses may all be in vain, and the trap he had prepared to kill him may also fail.
If the opportunity came quickly, he might even be able to cover it all up, but
If ten or even twenty years pass Even if he saves the whole world and racks up countless achievements
Whatever the reason, Allen would continue his hostility towards him and anyone who aided him.
If he were to find a way to save his brother, what would it even matter to anyone else? In their eyes, Allen would be nothing but a dirty traitor who stabbed his little brother in the back.
It was the same as if he had saved his brother by chance of a miracle. The body was his brothers, but it was the bastard inside who took all of those actions. How could he not be hostile?
In that way, Allen agonized over whether it would be right or not to recruit those who would have otherwise lived in peace without his intervention.
Id rather just befortable with it than feel so guilty about it.
Those experienced inbat would be rewarded with wealth and honor, but left alone, wouldnt they just get married and lead normal lives?
Wouldnt they be shedding their blood that they didnt need to shed?
That Julius wouldnt even be thinking about this at all. He would just be dragging them in.
Could he be overthinking this?
While walking along the main road, he heard a shout.
My mom is outside! They took her away!
No, boy. Well bring her back soon, okay?
Yeah, yeah. Dont ya know that theres supposed to be some high-ranking personin in today? So shut it.
Allen turned his head to find a woman in the tavern who seemed to be a little out of her element rushing towards the soldiers.
Chapter 11
Chapter 11
The passersby walking near the tavern stopped upon hearing themotion between the woman and soldiers.
Allen mixed in with the crowd to watch them.
If she goes up against the soldiers in this situation, nothing good wille out of it.
What are you doing now after youve already gotten all my money?
No, shut up!
If you dont have anything to say, then you shut up. I saw it all earlier too. You didnt pay for what you ate, and you ignored when people were getting stolen from! If you have any conscience left, then
You damned bitch
Surely enough, Allens thoughts were correct. The soldiers, having no intention to put up with her insults, squared their shoulders.
As the girl watched them, her face paled in fear. Yet she didnt stop speaking.
Why wont you all keep your promise?! I told you my moms out there! Let her in! Please! she screamed in anger.
However, none of the soldiers took her seriously. The one standing next to the groups leader took a look around and whispered, Boss, if we let her go and word gets to the higher-ups
I know.
The leader looked around with a cold look in his eyes. The disturbance that the woman had created had begun to draw the attention of the people walking through the streets.
We have enough money now, right? I heard theres a new aristocrat in town now, too, so we should go ahead and leave
Carefully considering the suggestion, the leader nodded.
They would be done for if they were caught, even if they had done far less than what they had actually done.
The price to bribe the gate guards was getting steeper and harder to gather.
It was time to wrap this confrontation up.
Well then, well handle that. And clean up as usual, got it?
Yes, sir.
After finishing their conversation, the leader winked at the soldiers around him, and they began to chase away the passersby, as if they were familiar with the situation. And in the process, they stopped the woman from escaping.
Wh-What are you doing?! If youre trying to get me to just waste the money I gave you all
The soldier blocking her escape from the rear winked.
Nod.
The soldier who received the others signal moved to grab her by the arm.
WhatLet me go!
Resisting the soldiers rough touch, she stiffened at the words he uttered next.
So, you wanna see your mom?
Wince.
She began to tremble. Despite her fear, she clenched her teeth and responded in a stinging tone.
Yeah. Why would you leave her out there after youve already taken all my money?!
Alright, alright. Its all good.
The soldiers hand moved up towards her shoulder. He smiled darkly and whispered in her ear, I think what you gave was a little short. But I think it would be enough if youd be so willing as to cooperate with us for a little bit.
Allen, who had been silently watching up until that point, began to move.
Depending on how you go about it
Stop it.
His cold voice rang inside the tavern. Everyones gaze turned towards him.
He hadnt meant to intervene directly. He could have resolved the issue by calling in the guards to help, so was there even a good reason to intervene directly?
Nevertheless, his reason for stepping in was simple.
That woman
He didnt recognize her at first. However, under all the rubbage covering her head, he found ck hair and purple eyes. And after seeing the rest of her familiar facial featuresbined, he was sure of it.
It really is her, isnt it?
The being that had troubled him so.
The girl whod lost her mother because she made a soldierte to his fight with Julius before his regression.
A soldier who had pledged her allegiance to Allen and died ughtering monsters while in the pursuit of her revenge against Julius.
A woman who would have a peaceful futureentirely unaware of her talentsif things were to go differently than they did in the past.
Having confirmed her to be that same being, Allen jumped into action right away without thinking.
Stomp, stomp.
His footsteps on the wooden floor resounded inside the tavern.
And who are you? Ah fuck, what a day
The soldier, who had been speaking his mind, looked back and forth between Juliuss luxurious dress and the guards standing behind him beforeughing.
No, sir. It appears that youve stumbled into something while on your outing. If you dont want to end up in a prison cell, itd be best to mind yourself.
Allen scowled.
Did he not see the family seal? Could it be that he solely supports the baron? Or is it that he doesn''t recognize the dukes emblem?
He began tough at the prospect.
Do you really not know who I am?
No, I dont know who you are, but you should be going. Cant you tell that youre in a dangerous situation right now? So before you lose your pride
At that moment, a soldier whod been watching from behind turned pale and immediately whispered to the leader.
Boss! I I think were all screwed. Isnt he the noble who came to town today??
What did you say?
Having heightened his senses in advance just in case, Allen could overhear all of their conversations.
The leader, whod been wearing an unimpressed expression during the entirety of the interaction, widened his eyes and immediately looked at the emblem on Allens body.
His face turned white. When one of his soldiers began to speak rudely again, he covered his mouth.
Yeah, so get the fuMmph.
My apologies, sir! I believe this one here is just drunk and talking nonsense. Please show us mercy, just this once.
Mercy? After hearing all of those insults?
Having been forced to speak by the leader, one of theckeys became as quiet as a mouse after finding out how things were turning out for the worst.
Upon hearing that, Allen was also dumbfounded.
So the baron changed, but the people under him havent, huh.
Knowing that the only thing that had changed from what he remembered was the baron, he felt a bit relieved and contempt at the reaction of those whod tried to diminish the Reinhart familys power.
Even though the city isnt directly ruled by the duke, do the people living in his territories really not recognize his emblem?
Yeah, mercy. Mercy would be good.
Allen burst intoughter, making the leader think he had gone crazy.
Allen had thought that he couldve been the child of an honest merchant, so he had been observing his subordinates behavior to make sure of that suspicion.
If you slip up, then your head will be cut off.
It would be easier for a rich merchants child to bribe their way out of a situation like this. From messing with the wrong people. From ming their subordinates for their own wrongdoings.
So, then, what about you?
Allen asked the woman who had been standing peacefully next to the unfolding situation.
P-Pardon?
I stepped in because of you. Thats why Im asking you now.
She stammered in response to his question and red at the soldiers.
I Id like to reveal their true nature if possible, but
The soldiers expressions grew dark at her response.
You all gotta stop it. No, please stop. But I feel bad because yall didnt do nothing yet. Or because you all havent done anything yet.
Frowning at her inconsistency in speech, the man spoke.
If speaking formally is difficult, you can speak regrly.
Thats
As she spent her time hesitating, Allen sighed and urged her on.
Come on.
Oh Uhm, well Then Nothing has happened yet, so Im okay.
Hearing her response, the soldiers let out a relieved sigh. However, Allen had no intention of ending things just yet.
One.
What?
An eye or a tongue. Choose one.
No, I
Hm?
Allens face turned cold.
Dont they know the consequences of crossing noblemen, the owners of theirnd?
When did I ever say that Id do as she said? I only asked for her opinion.
That Isnt that too unreasonable?
You.
The ring around Allens heart began to shake, and the intangible force within him began to swell up around them.
As he approached them, step by step, unbearable pressure began to weigh on their surroundings.
It appears you dont understand the meaning of your insults towards me.
Heughed.
This was the reality of the dukedom. Its citizens not only failed to recognize the owner of theirnd, but were rude to him as well.
If I were a different nobleman, you wouldve been decapitated already. But because Im so merciful, Im giving you the chance to choose. So make a decision. Which would you prefer? Eye or tongue?
The guards standing behind him drew their swords in unison. The meaning behind his words was simple.
Would you rather give up your life or simply lose an eye or a tongue?
The drunken soldiers couldnt even respond to the unfamiliar level of military discipline and force they were experiencing.
AAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!
M-My eye!
AAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!
For just a moment in thete evening, terrible screams rang out from the tavern.
* * *
* * *
In front of him stood the woman who was slightly different from how he remembered herfrom her manner of speech to her actions and expressions.
Allen was somewhat pleased by this change. It seemed to imply that their fate could still be changed after all.
Uhm Can I call you sir?
Sure.
As Allen answered her, she hesitated to assume.
What is it? questioned Allen whose back was towards her. She carefully replied, nervous to speak before a member of the aristocracy.
I Uhm Why did you bring me here?
As she asked him her question, she quietly undid her cor.
Upon looking at her, Allen forced a smile.
What a pain.
Since he stopped by the tavern in the early evening, he figured that it was currently the middle of the night.
It was natural for her to be worried since she was alone with him in a room at such ate hour.
However, he had no intention of doing any of that sort of thing.
Dont worry, I dont n on doing anything to you.
Hehe, how kind of you.
She gave an awkward smile but kept her guard up.
Her waist-length ck hair, purple eyes, and dirt-covered white skin sparkled in the moonlight.
She was right to worry about it, though.
Rather than being happy about it, Allen questioned the fact that she had been right to assume that she was about to be a victim of a vulgar situation.
Had this kind of thing been happening to her before my regression? Or could it just be a result of the butterfly effect?
While she washed up, he read through the ck book, reminiscing through his past memories. However, there was nothing else to infer from it.
It had also bothered him that he had heard about her mother during her conversation with the soldiers.
The reason why she eventually turned into the person in Allens memories was because of the incident regarding her mother.
More specifically, her mothers death.
That was what made her change.
He looked at the girl and took a moment to think. In that moment, he suddenly realized that he didnt even know her name.
Whats your name?
Hic, hic! I Im not feeling very well. So please dont attack me What?
Her pale skin reddened.
What are you imagining up there?
Th-Thats
Im into older women, so a kid like you
The corners of his mouth lifted into a smirk as his eyes traced her body. Every time their eyes met, she would let out a small yelp and shrink away from him.
Youre not really my type.
She let out a sigh of relief as she leaned back.
Then, she made a smallint.
Linbelle. And Im not a kid. Im fifteen.
Ah, yes. A young, youngdy.
When Allen answered almost agreeingly, she pouted and sulked. However, he didnt seem to have noticed.
So, Linbelle
When it seemed as though shed eased her anxiety to a certain extent, Allen sprung the question.
What did you do to cause thatmotion with those soldiers?
I
She trembled and hesitated, repeatedly opening and closing her mouth without uttering a single word.
At first nce, it seems as though it had something to do with your mother
As Allen calmly smiled at her, she slowly began to speak, fidgeting with her hands while talking.
Its because those soldiers didnt keep their promise.
Promise?
Yes.
He waited silently, as though urging her to keep going.
And so, she slowly began to unravel her story.
Chapter 12
Chapter 12
We came from a hunting vige in the mountains. My mom and I stayed together. She would go out to hunt and sell the leather, and I would forage for herbs.
A hunting vige
I cant remember much from when I was really young. My mom said its because I hit my head pretty hard on the ground once, hehe
Allen remembered that her vige had been inhabited by rough hunters and rugged mountain climbers.
A mother had to raise her daughter alone in that kind of ce by bing a hunter as well
Those circumstances couldnt be called normal.
But if a monster ever appeared and if Mr. Henkel, who lived next door and gathered herbs, and Mr. Jason, who always said he was never scared of anything, werent there and if the merchants who always came to the vige also werent there
Stop.
Allen cut her off, thinking that her exnation was taking too long.
So why were you fighting with those soldiers?
She scowled for a second before lowering her gaze, remembering the status of the man before her.
Oh, okay. So all that was why we decided toe and take refuge in the city, but
But you were blocked at the gate.
After having said that, Allen began to find the situation odd.
How did she even get in the city while so many others who also seeked refuge were still left outside the gates?
Yes, s-so
Looking as though she were about to start hesitating with her words again, Allen spoke firmly.
So?
As Allen urged her, she continued with her eyes closed, as if it were a necessary action.
So I bribed them to let me in.
What?
If you go to the east or west gates instead of the north or south gates, you can get yourself into the city with a good bribe.
She trembled as if she were confessing a great sin, but Allen didnt really care much about it.
If it were him, he, too, wouldve resorted to bribery to guarantee his own safety in the city. What was wrong with forcing oneself through into the safety of the walls whileing from such a dangerous environment?
So
Yes?
Why were you fighting with those soldiers?
After unexpectedly hearing the same question, she answered him with the same, unchanging stunned look shed had before.
I bribed them to let me in. We couldnt afford to give them more than half of our money, but Mom told me to give them some extra fur and herbs to be safe.
Her round eyes began to glisten.
Those bad guys When they finally let me in and it was my moms turn, they suddenly demanded that we give the rest of our money before letting her in
Unlike how she had been yelling at the soldiers earlier, she now had tears in her eyes as she spoke.
Gulp, sob.
And when mom finally gave them everything Hic they just kicked her out because they said that they had a sudden schedule change Hic
Allen looked awkwardly at her as she suddenly burst into tears.
Come here for a second.
However, that was in vain. There was no point in trying tofort her. When he consoled her, she started crying even harder, soaking his shirt in her tears.
Waaahhh What am I gonna doooo Sir Waaahhh
Its okay. Ill help you. Maybe.
Because its my fault.
From her point of view, the soldiers actions were outrageous. However, Allen coldly brushed it off.
Regardless
If they said that they had a sudden schedule change, then maybe it was my partys fault?
It was possible that soldiers from afar saw them and rushed to take control of their duties when Allen and Francisca first arrived at the gates.
What if something happens to her outside Hic
Allen consoled her without saying a word and thought about the details surrounding his journey.
How many days did it take to get to Hibelle in his past life? Did she lose her mother in the past? What exactly happened?
We arrived in the same way as we didst time.
He came to this conclusion from skimming through the ck book.
He tried to recall memories from before his regression, but it was impossible to fully remember the past, even from only a few years ago.
Or about his enemy, who was still yet to be of a higher rank.
Even though he could roughly remember some things, he couldnt recall the details.
I have no choice but to rely on the book for details.
As the future changed, the number of identical information between both lives written in the book became less and less. Nheless, the conclusion was clear.
The book was still useful enough for now.
Im going to go to the soldiers directly early tomorrow morning and tell them to let her in. Which gate did you say she was supposed to be at?
Sniff The west gate
Ill go pick her up in the morning myself, okay?
She began to shake violently as her red eyes widened.
Hic Th-Thank you so much, sir. Really. Hic. For your kindness. Sniff. Ill find a way Ill find a way to repay you Hic.
Allen gave a bitter smile and smoothed her glossy ck hair.
In the end, it was his fault. Yet he was d.
And maybe it was because she was tired from crying for so long, but her eyelids started to close, and she began to murmur:
If you
Hm?
If you decide you want to touch me now, I wont say anything
Although shed just been babbling, she quickly passed out from the emotional exhaustion from the day.
Hah.
Allen got up and ironicallyughed at her for not being able to get rid of her doubts about him up until the very end.
He brought her to the bedroom,id her down on the spare bed, and retied her cor.
After working too hard all at once, it was always harder to do almost any task the next day. And after ten days of traveling, Allen couldnt suppress his exhaustion anymore.
I bet theyll say something again tomorrow.
Thinking of the work he would have to do the next day, he threw himself into bed.
His breathing soon became more even.
At that moment, she, whod fallen asleep in his arms, opened her eyes slightly.
Thank you. Really.
After a little while, her breathing, too, became heavy and even.
A smile of unknown meaning formed around Allens lips and quickly disappeared.
It was a peaceful night.
For the moment.
* * *
Here Aaaah!
Allen, who had been meditating on the floor, opened his eyes to the sound of a small scream.
As he finished up his meditation with a light breath, he saw Linbelle and her bewildered expression.
Whats wrong? Did you not sleep well?
That I
Shame became evident on her face, brought about by the thoughts she had been thinking.
Allen chuckled, as if he knew what she had been thinking.
Ah, dont worry about taking my spot. I was tired too.
Th-Thank you
She rose quickly from her seat and bowed. Allen stretched his stiff body.
Uhm, so, well
Knowing what she wanted to sayalmost as if he read her mindhe spoke.
I passed my orders down to the soldiers earlier at dawn, so lets go to the west gate together in a little while.
Her face brightened as he addressed exactly what had been worrying her.
Thank you so much!
Well, first off, go get ready. I think it would be best if we had a quick meal before going out.
Yes, yes, sir!
* * *
* * *
Sir Allen?
Right after leaving the room, Allen heard someone calling for him. He turned to face the source of the familiar voice and saw the persons flowing dark red hair approaching him.
Miss Francisca.
She was smiling as always.
How was your sleep, Sir Allen?
Good morning.
Youre industrious as usual.
Im ttered. Did you sleep wellst night?
Yes. Thanks to you, I was able to sleep peacefully for the first time in a long while. By the way
Her gaze shifted behind him. Linbelle let out a small yelp as they met eyes.
Eep!
Whos that kid?
Allen didnt miss the sorceresss eyes turning cold for a split second.
Shes a kid I saved while I was walking around the city yesterday. It got prettyte, though, so I kept her with me.
Hmmm. Is that so?
Yes.
As if searching for something, she looked over Linbelle a few times. Once she confirmed that there was nothing wrong with the young girl, she smiled widely and continued to walk.
Alright, I see. I didnt know you were with a little girlst night
Allen walked in step with her. Linbelle carefully followed closely behind them.
Thats nonsense.
Haha. I know what you''re thinking, but I prefer more mature women than kids like her.
Allen shrugged, and Francisca closed her eyes.
Im sure you do
Im not a kid. Hmph!
Linbelle quickly shut her mouth after unconsciously speaking her mind. Her eyes were wide open as she trembled in fear, realizing that she interrupted the sorceress.
However, Francisca didnt appear to be the slightest bit upset. Instead, she stroked Linbelles hair, thinking that she was cute.
Oh my, youre just adorable. Whats your name?
Im Linbelle.
I owe you an apology. Im sorry for calling you a kid.
Oh, dont worry.
Linbelle was visibly embarrassed when the woman, whod been of a much higher status than her, apologized to her. She then hurriedly turned towards Allen, asking for help.
Seeing the look in her eyes, he decided to intervene.
Miss Francisca, we have to go now as we have urgent business to attend to
Francisca paused momentarily, making Linbelle immediately hide behind Allen.
The sorceress gave her an apologetic look and began to speak as if she had a good idea.
Whats the issue?
Its rather simple. The kids mom got locked out of town, so were going to go find her.
He didnt borate any further. He didnt mention anything about the soldiers smuggling people in or the bribes. There was no need to expose their shorings in public.
She replied with a brief nod.
Well then, would it be alright if I came along?
What
Is this a dream?
Allen swallowed the words that were about to burst out.
He had felt a sense of ipatibility between them ever since they first met. Until their run-in not long aftering out from his room into the hallway, he had let that sensation slide. However, it could be seen as disrespectful to try to intrude on his private life.
What is she even thinking?
There wasnt any reason for her to care so much about him.
First was while they were on their way to Hibelle, then that time she asked whether he believed in prophecies, and now this.
She appeared different than how he had once known her due to her somewhat out-of-the-blue questions.
Allen had no idea what she was really thinking behind her mask of a smile.
As we discussed yesterday, the soldiers have been busy evacuating vigers since early this morning. It would be easier to search for someone in the crowd if you took me with you.
Allen weighed the pros and cons in his head.
She did have a point.
The soldiers would be all over the ce transporting the vigers into the city.
I guess its useless.
Chapter 13
Chapter 13
Note: There was a slight oversight in one of the terms used in the series. The novel in the series, The Feast of the Returned Demon King, has been changed to The Feast of the Reincarnated Demon King. This oversight was due to theter decision of going with the term Reincarnator instead of Returner while the initial mass release was still in the works. Sorry for any confusion this has caused thus far.
But guess what? Now you all know who the supposed Reincarnator is. Congrattions.
After finding Linbelles mother, Allen nned to deal with the chimera sorcerer.
However
Isnt it weird to be trying to find someone less than a day after arriving in the city?
Julius may have been able to deceive the baron in the past by gloating his familys name. However, Allen didnt think the same thing would work on the current Baron Bellourne given that he would act the way that Allen thought he would.
Then again, what if he just fell for Juliuss excuse due to his ipetence?
It would probably be best to just say that we found her early on into the search by luck.
Disregarding the thought of just going elsewhere, Allen thought about what they would get out of her tagging along with them.
Would she even be useful?
She would be.
She would be more useful than any soldier since as a sorcerer, her senses would sharpen fivefold every time her rank increased.
Although Allen had a rtivelyrge ring, he could only utilize a three-meter radius to sense around him. Meanwhile, Francisca, as a Rank 4 sorceress, had a domain of 375 meters.
As is, she would be very useful as a tracker.
Well, maybe.
As Allen agonized over her, Francisca approached Linbelle and struck up a conversation.
Your skin is so clear! Do you do anything special to it?
Ah, uhm I dont really know.
Oh, so it must be gics. You mustve gotten it from your parents. Whats your mother like?
Yes, th-thank you My mom is a lot prettier than me. But what''s gics?
Hm Well, gics are sort of like
It looks like theyre getting along.
Allen then gave his reply to Franciscas suggestion.
Well then,e with us. I have a lot to do, so lets get going.
* * *
Because many soldiers had gone to the viges since the morning, the wall at the west gate was quiet from the small number of soldiers remaining there.
Apart from the guards, there were masses of people moving around. Allen was initially worried about finding Linbelles mother in that kind of setting, but
Sir Allen, is this the woman you were looking for?
His worries ceased. There was no need to have brought Francisca with them. The soldiers had already found the woman by the time theyd arrived at the gate.
Ah! Mom!
As soon as Linbelle saw the woman the soldiers had brought, she immediately ran to her with tears running down her face.
Linbelle?
She hugged Linbelle, who jumped straight into her arms, bewildered by the situation.
The soldiers left as soon as Allen approached, and the woman turned her attention to him.
She appeared to be in her early thirties. She shared the same waist-length ck hair and purple eyes as her daughter, and she had the solid body of a hunter, just as Linbelle had said.
Observing the behavior of the soldiers around her, she carefully asked, Could you be a nobleman?
I am the eldest son of the Reinhart family, Allen Reinhart.
He slowly walked towards them. And as he came within three meters of them, the ring around his heart gently vibrated, taking in everything within his range.
Why is my heart racing? Shes tensing her legs Is she looking to escape?
Her actions piqued his interest.
She raised her daughter alone while working as a hunter, unlike how she lived in his previous life.
However, for some reason, she had been anxious ever since his arrival, unlike Allen who was moderately amused.
The feelings she was harboring werent the same feelings thatmoners experienced when faced with nobility.
Im curious, but
That was all.
He didnt intend to dig any deeper and expose her secrets that he meant to protect.
Mom, he helped me find you, Linbelle said, softly. She had been in her mothers arms for quite some time now.
Is that so?
Also, he saved me from some soldiers who tried to Oh, and also, he let me eat in his fancy house
No matter what Linbelle said, however, her mother maintained her stiff expression and tightly shut lips.
Allen slowly approached the nervous woman.
I suppose its no use to tell you to rx. He smiled, but she didnt return it.
What do you want from us?
Mom!
You stay put.
Linbelle protested against her mother, but couldnt manage to win her over. And as her mother spoke, she became quiet again.
I dont believe youve decided to help us purely out ofpassion, sir.
Her suspicions were reasonable.
Why would the dukes eldest son personally order soldiers to help a random person? And a totally unrted vige girl, at that?
Her daughter may have been naive, but she was not.
Sir, I dont know what you want from us, but we dont have anything to offer.
What could he
If you want our bodies, then take me instead of my daughter
Mom!
Linbelle, unable to stay silent, spoke out again.
Sir Allen isnt like that. He just wanted to help
Quiet, Linbelle. Nothing in this worldes without a price, even if you pretend otherwise.
Linbelle was visibly upset by her words, yet her mother didnt look at her.
How rude!
A soldier shouted.
Watch what you say to Sir Allen! Who do you think youre talking to
Thats enough.
But
With a wave of a hand from Allen, the soldier quickly shifted his gaze and shut his mouth.
Yes, you were correct. Theres nothing in this world thates without a price.
He nodded at her words. The same held true both now and back then.
There was nothing in this world that came without a price.
Allen thought of the price he may someday have to pay for having been able to return to the past. He just didnt know when it would be.
I hope I can put it off until after I kill him
He couldnt conceive the thought that things could possibly just turn in his favor and a price would not have to be paid.
But not this time. Well, I suppose you could say otherwise. I did have a reason for helping you.
She approved of their shared thinking. Linbelle, perhaps shocked, stared nkly.
Fransica had unexpectedly stayed quiet while observing the situation. Possibly because it wasnt any of her business.
I was thinking of asking you to
So you really just did want her for her body after all
Allen was stunned for a moment.
Francisca covered her mouth to hold back herughter, but the corners of her mouth continued to twitch out of control until she eventually burst intoughter.
Linbelle took two steps away. Her face then reddened, just as it had the day before, as if shed only just grasped the situation.
Ah, well, I Its, uhm
Her eyes moved back and forth frantically as she stuttered. Allen continued, maintaining his expression with superhuman patience.
Ahem. Well, as I was going to say, I was thinking of asking you to work as a maid, Allen replied with consideration to what he had been worrying about since arriving in the city.
Excuse me?
Id like to ask you both, mother and daughter, to work as maids.
Despite Allensck of involvement, history had already been rewritten. And despite having had no run-ins with Julius yet, Linbelle had already had a rough go of things. Though he hadn''t been around at that time to interfere, she seemed to have been miserable, even if the oue was different from the one before his regression.
As such
Ill take them with me.
After all, intervening like this would give them the choice between fighting on the battlefield or getting caught in the crossfire.
However, it wasnt guaranteed that the same thing would happen as it had before his regression. So he figured it best to take them with him.
That was his conclusion.
There were lots of disasters in the future toe. What if they were to die in the midst of one of those disasters? Had he not intervened, who would be to me? Him? The disaster itself? A God who may or may not even exist?
Theres no use in worrying.
If hed known that this would happen, he wouldve acted thoughtlessly like Julius.
However, because of his worries, the standard for how he should act in the future had been set.
Time continued to pass regardless of your actions orck thereof, and the oue of the choices you made were unknown until they happened.
Could he be sure that there wouldnt be a better oue if he didnt intervene?
I cant.
After all, he wasnt any kind of omniscient god. He was just a person who happened to know a little bit about the future.
The ck book only contained tales of a future that would no longer line up with the events toe, right?
His eyes sparkled.
At this moment, thered been no change in his capabilities.
Yet he was convinced that with even just a small amount of knowledge on the future, he coulde to achieve new heights.
Understanding the future
He shook his head. For now, he should just finish their conversation.
Us?
Allen felt the need to think quickly, so he firmly spoke.
Well then, would you grant me permission to employ Linbelle alone?
I
The mothers expression turned dark.
Its obvious that youre concerned about her, so I offered to take the both of you as maids. I dont have any other ideas.
I I
Well do it!
Linbelle immediately epted his proposition. However, her mother objected.
No!
Why not?! Sir Allen really is a good person! Yesterday
Linbelle then whispered in her mothers ear.
Allen waited politely until the mother startledly looked at him and pped her daughter.
Ack! Whyd you do that?!
Ill see youter.
She red at her daughter and came to stand in front of Allen.
She had known from the time he offered to make them maids that it was a deration rather than an invitation. She couldnt refuse an invitation from an aristocrat, who would one day be the ruler of thend on which they stood. She could do nothing else but believe him to be truly good-natured from the nature of the request, hoping that all that she heard from her daughter truly reflected his nature.
She thought something through in her head, and then looked up decidedly, having made up her mind.
I, Inellia, and my daughter, Linbelle, ept your offer to serve as your maids. And
She came up to him and whispered, You may touch me, but please dont touch my daughter.
He hadnt even thought about doing anything of the sort.
Annoyed, Allen replied without trying to correct her misconception.
Alright. I wont.
Not having found a way to save his brother yet, he hadnt had the time to even think about trying to get with any women. Maybe once it was all over, he might take the time to think about it.
But will that day evere?
Thank you for epting my request.
Francisca, whod been carefully observing the series of events, looked at Allen with a vague expression on her face. It was clear that she heard their whispered exchange.
Allen ignored her gaze and talked to the mother and daughter.
Inellia, Linbelle, Ill get you a room so you can unwind for a bit. And regarding your training as maids we can discuss that once we return to the manor.
Taking inmoners as maids wouldve been an unimaginable action had it been his past life, but he didnt care.
With the two under his wing, not only would he obtain the power of the girl who would one day be very powerful, but also, his mother would support him because she wanted anyone toe in to work as maids.
Allen immediately went to approach Francisca to thank her.
Miss Francisca, thank you foring along with us.
Oh, I barely helped at all.
Still, thank you for offering your help.
Allen gave a small bow and turned around. He needed to organize all of the thoughts that had been rushing through his head.
By the way, sir
Im sorry, but Im quite busy.
After greeting them again, he sent Inellia and Linbelle to their room in the mansion before heading to a nearby inn himself.
Come on!
Any single room is fine.
Ah, yes. Right this way!
Once in the room, the innkeeper dropped the key on ident, but Allen didn''t care. He took the key and immediately went to sit down.
With an indecipherable smile, Francisca stared at his back until he disappeared into the inn.
Chapter 14
Chapter 14
Sir Allen, I wish you godspeed.
Sir, would you like to go now
Smack!
Be quiet.
Ah My forehead
Linbelle touched her red forehead, eyes glistening.
Allen smiled tly and turned around. Watching the mother and daughter fight was quite entertaining, but
I have things to do.
By the end of the day, he would kill the chimera sorcerer.
He raised his head.
The sturdy wall and thick gate stood in front of him, while the hundred soldiers hed brought with him waited around him in an orderly manner.
The residents gathered around to watch the soldiers, causing a ruckus.
I want to have this all settled and return within a few days, so be ready to go.
Yes, sir.
Linbelle, who had been looking at him regretfully until that point, nodded.
Looking at Inellia, she opened her mouth as if she had something she wanted to say, yet hesitatingly closed it again.
Is there something you want to say?
Sir, I
She looked back and forth between Allen and the surrounding troops, shook her head, and then answered quietly.
I wish you a safe return.
How nd.
He knew she was hiding something, but couldn''t be bothered to try to figure out what it was. Being on his side and revealing all of her secrets to him were unrted.
There was no reason to dig if it didnt affect him.
He turned to face Francisca, who was there to see him off.
Id like to ask you to take care of those two while Im away.
Dont worry, sir.
Francisca smiled gracefully before bowing.
He had left her in the city just in case. He needed to be prepared in case anything unexpected urred.
A Rank 4 sorcerer should be able to easily resolve any incidents that could ur in the city.
So
Allen stepped forward.
Creeeaaak
The gate opened, and wind blew in through the opening.
In front of the north gatey a prairie that had a forest behind it.
In the face of the blowing wind, Allen made a silent resolve.
This time
Without fail.
Lets go!
His eyes stared coldly into the distance ahead.
* * *
Half an hour after Allen and the soldiers left the city, Inellia and Linbelle returned to their room in the barons manor to wait.
Mom I couldnt I have gone with them?
She pouted, disappointed that she wasnt allowed to go.
No.
Ill just go to watch the walls from a distance. Or is that not okay either? Hm? Moooooooom!
No. Absolutely not. They wouldve already reached the forest by now. How would you be able to watch them if you don''t even know where they are?
The young girl grumbled in response, tapping her toes against the floor in protest. Inellia could only sigh at her.
Linbelle,bat is no joke, you know.
But still
As her daughter continued to pester her, Inellia let out a sigh and said, Youre weak. You would only be a burden to them.
Really I wanted to watch Sir Allen fight Linbelle replied gloomily to her mothers rebuttal.
Just a few days ago, she had almost gotten in serious trouble with the soldiers.
She would be lying if she said she didnt want to witness Allen defeat the viin like a scene in a movie. But what could she do when she would only be a burden?
I get it. Ill stop now.
She could do nothing but agree with her mother.
Her face turned sullen, but it didnt inspire her mother to change her mind.
Maybe if it were at a different time
Had the soldiers at the tavern targeted someone else that day, Linbelle wouldnt have ever crossed paths with Allens party.
I dont really care if I live or die, as long as Linbelle gets spared
Now, she had a ce to stay where she could rx.
The motive behind epting Allen''s offer was the fact that Inellia was able to escape his gaze here.
Because it was difficult to make it out of here on your own.
Well, he didnt seem like too bad of a person.
At first, she really believed that the young masters motive behind helping them was to use them for their bodies. However, after spending a short amount of time together with him, Allen hadnt shown any signs of having dark intentions.
She thought he wouldve tried to sneak a touch on her, but he really didn''ty a finger on either of them.
Maybe hes a eunuch.
Still thinking of those silly, vulgar spections, she soothed her pouting daughter.
Linbelle, when we go back to the dukes manor, we can ask to see Sir Allen again.
What?
Even though she was fifteen years old now, old enough to be considered an adult, Linbelle was still young.
Help me get stronger first, yeah? And then we can go together.
Really? So you think Sir Allen would allow it?
Of course. After all, he appointed you as his maid.
Inellia actually couldnt tell whether or not Allen would behave as Linbelle had promised. But from what shed seen of him so far, she thought that hed probably allow it.
Ok! Then well definitely go next time.
Alright.
Inellia smiled as she thought of the bright future awaiting them.
Crash!
Until one of the walls of the manor was smashed in.
Haha, it really wasnt so hard to find you, Inellia.
Inellias smile faded rapidly.
She shuddered at the chilling voice and the ear-ringing sensation it produced.
A rich person''s house so thats why you were so hard to find.
A gigantic monster had broken through the manors walls. Standing at three meters tall with two long, round, crooked horns on its head. Two hands with sharp, pointy nails, and red eyes that struck fear into the hearts of men.
With its muscles protruding along its entire body to indicate its dangerous potential, the monster began to speak in a noble manner, unbefitting of its intimidating appearance.
Maam, do you know how many of my brethren have sacrificed their lives in hopes of finding youcapturing youin order to take some of your time?
She, whose hardened expression had changed, regained her focus upon hearing its voice.
Is Miss Fransisca?
Inellia frantically looked around, but Francisca didnte to their aid despite her silent cry.
The monster, Regnor, smirked and shook his head.
Ah, are you looking for that sorcerer? Unfortunate for you, then
ng!
As he uttered those words, a deafening roar came from behind him. The screams of frightened people followed shortly after.
Ack, its a monster!
H-How did a monster get in here?!
Regnor closed his eyes for a moment, as if to savor the sounds, before continuing.
I wont be able toe back for a little while. It wouldnt be worth it toe all this way for just one of them. So how about tenor no, a hundred of them?
No
That other thing is also hidden somewhere in the city, so itll take a long time to deal with it all. If it werent for those, we could just get it all over within three days But, well, I guess theres no use in talking about it.
Inellias face contorted while Regnor bared his fangs as heughed.
Youre fucking insane.
Youre the only one who thinks that.
Maybe it was because of all of the power he exuded that nobody dared to approach him.
Inellia bit her lips, regretting her decision.
If I had just revealed everything and followed Sir Allen, then
However, it was toote to regret.
As if uninterested in her thoughts, Regnor shrugged and began to speak.
Its hard to believe that you, the one behind this, are still ying with dolls. And the only thing you do is forsake the honor of being master''s hands and feet
Shut it, Regnor. Im the one who decides whether Im ying with dolls or not.
Well"
The chimeras mouth was torn all the way up to his ears. Nevertheless, Regnor chuckled while being in that state.
What would you do if the thing you loved most happened to disappear?
What?
I failed back then, but now do you think you''ll be able to stop me from going for that little thing?"
He pointed at Linbelle, who had just been sitting on the floor.
Uh, Mom? Do you know that monster?
Hearing her daughters voice calling out to her, Inellia came to her senses.
Dont you touch her! If you touch Linbelle even once
Inellias formerly round ears became pointy, and another pupil formed inside each eye. Her skin turned gray, and at the same time, twelve pairs of wings popped out from her back.
Ill be forced to take action.
She was now in a position in which she could no longer call herself human. Upon closer inspection, she resembled the sprites who had disappeared from the continent.
M-Mom? Why do you look like that? And who is that monster?
Linbelle, Ill tell you everythingter. So just just wait for a minute.
As their brief conversation ended, the chimera burst intoughter.
But if I say that I will touch her What then?
Regnors red eyes reflected the crescent moon.
Inellia parted her lips and asked, What the hell do you want?
Haha. As expected, you are pretty quick-witted, Inellia.
Regnor calmed himself upon hearing her answer. However, Inellia knew that if she hadnt given the right answer, he wouldve gone after her daughter immediately.
Come back with us. If you do, we wont do anything to the kid.
Really?
Mom!
So long as you serve as a stepping stone for the sake of the master I shall keep my promise.
Linbelle let out a scream, and Inellia looked at her with sad eyes.
Linbelle
Inellia thought she could escape to freedom. As maids of the dukes eldest son, she thought they could start a new life together.
It was too good to be true
It was too naive of her to have tried to wait it out until the mastermind was taken down.
Hurry up. It looks like a pretty strong sorcerer is on their way.
He interrupted Inellia''s thoughts and turned to face her daughter.
He smirked.
I had no idea how this was all going to end up, you know.
Upset by Regnors demands, Inellia quickly kissed Linbelle on the forehead and rose.
Iming.
Thats a wise choice. Hold on tight. Lets go.
As he grinned with his pointed teeth, Inellia turned to Linbelle, who could only stare at her nkly in confusion.
Mom?
With a faint smile, Inellia climbed onto Regnors back.
Mom Mom! Mom!
Linbelle, who had only just thene to her senses, called out to her mother.
However
Of course, there was no response.
She had no other choice but to stare into the space where they once stood, as they disappeared into small dots over the horizon.
Chapter 15
Chapter 15
Fransisca looked around the city.
Not long after Allen left, chimeras had stormed in.
Soldiers had gone along with him, causing a shortage of troops in the city. So of course there had to be a big disturbance.
Fortunately, the chimeras didnt appear to be too powerful.
However
There are just too many.
Two or threepetent men could defeat one chimera, but there were too many chimeras.
No matter where you hid within the city, a monster would appear there.
Well, not exactly.
Chimeras?
Their joints and hooves were reminiscent of mountain goats, while their upper bodies could bepared to a gnolls? Or maybe a goblins?
She made a quick decision.
The damage is too great to deal with everyone one by one.
Mana shot out of her heart. Manifesting as a ck fog wrapped around her, the mana formed a ck domain. A strange creation that stretched out from an image in her mind.
And upon her gesture, the ck fog gathered into one ce, and creatures who seemed toe straight out of a nightmare came into existence.
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACK!
KYAAAAAAAAAAAAA!
Kill the remaining chimeras in the city.
The summoned beings drifted to ces where disturbances had arisen, releasing blue mucus and green tentacles.
As she continued to move, the remaining fog gathered into a summon in the shape of a horse whose eyes were sewn together with thread. Its thick tentacles rose from the side of its stomach, and the mouths all over its body exposed sharp, pointed teeth.
Francisca gave a nervous look towards the manor before climbing onto the horse summon.
Lets go to the manor. Quickly.
She was brought back to her senses by the loud roar that hade from the manor, but was caught up with the chimeras stationed on the way there.
Hopefully, nothing had happened.
Having already had a bad feeling, Francisca rushed through the streets.
I-Its a monster!
Stay back! I said, stay back!
Fuck! Fuck you all! Get away! Get the fuck away from me!
The summons terrible appearance caused a brief disturbance, but thanks to it, she was able to quickly arrive at the manor.
However, as she ran into the manor, something massive also moved into the structure. Then, almost as quickly as it came, it had flown in the direction of the east gate.
She was troubled by its sudden retreat.
Should I go after it? But what if those two are still inside?
It was more urgent to protect Inellia and Linbelle than to chase the monster.
Having made her decision, Francisca summoned an eyeball with wings to follow after the chimera.
p, p.
Fortunately, the chimera didnt seem to notice its follower.
Francisca walked around the manor. Unlike the chaotic city, the manor was quiet.
The walls were broken, and the gardens were ruined. There was no sign of any movement.
It can''t be
As she came to her senses, she began to scout her surroundings more intently.
Broken walls, disorganized interiors, smashed stairs, and
There was a silhouette in the space between them.
Linbelle!
Francisca hurried over as she watched Linbelle copse with a devastated face.
Can you hear me? Do you recognize me?
Miss Francisca.
The sorceress checked the young girls physical condition before facing her.
M-Mom is
Its okay. Everythings gonna be alright, okay?
The d-demon came and my m-mom was
Francisca held her as she stuttered. She disyed signs of genuineness to a certain extent. And Francisca asked her with an apologetic look.
Linbelle.
Yes?
Linbelle gazed at her with empty eyes.
Could you tell me what happened here?
The young girl opened her mouth as carefully as possible so she could speak. She didnt look too good, but what seemed to have bothered her more was that Inellia wasnt there.
I want to help you.
I
The demon who had broken into the manor.
Inellia who seemed to have known that demon.
And who seemed to have transformed into a fairy out of a legend.
And
That demon
The fact that her mother seemed to have been taken away because of her.
And thats what happened.
She pretended to be calm as she spoke.
Francisca was stunned by her appearance.
Ill take it from here, okay?
She closed her eyes.
She could feel her summoned creatures steadily decreasing the number of chimeras in the area.
The rest of this can be taken care of by the soldiers.
She then rearranged Linbelles clothes and got up from where shed been sitting.
Linbelle, Im sorry, but could you stay here?
But I Linbelle whispered quietly, I want to go with you too.
Linbelle, you know that this is dangerous.
I know Im being shameless right now. Maybe Im a burden right now, too, but Miss Francisca, please
Her empty eyes burned with determination, as if this were her sole purpose.
Francisca had once known a man with those kinds of eyes.
A man who had to do the same thing once before.
Shed only been hanging on for so long because of it.
Please, I beg of you
Fine, she answered with a sigh.
Please take me with yHuh?
Im letting youe with me.
Linbelles formerly ghastly blue eyes that would asionally roll in annoyance instantly turned into more innocent, surprised eyes.
Come on, lets go. Theres not much time.
Um, I Okay!
Phew
Francisca wasnt so weak-hearted in the past, but when it came to people like Linbelle
I just cant help it.
She deserved to see the ending of this story.
It must be sad to be separated from your own mother at such a young age.
Stopping her thoughts there, she stretched out her hand.
Darkness gathered and stood still around her. Then, a new, even more absurd-looking horse was summoned.
The pegasus-like summoned creature gathered the tentacles located on either side of its back together to form wings, while all four eyes on both sides of its belly blinked and stared at her.
Get on.
Wh-What is this?
Linbelle flinched away as she followed a nk-faced Francisca.
Linbelle, you can ride a horse, right? Come ride with me.
W-WaitAaaack!
Francisca dragged the squirming child onto the horse that remained calm and still.
After both of them had gotten on, Francisca closed her eyes to concentrate. A moment had passed before she turned to the east gate and said, Lets go. Hold on tight. It might get a little shaky.
A-Alright Aaaack!
Anothermotion arose once the two left the manor.
People were frightened as more monsters appeared, and others ran away in an attempt to get away from them.
However, thanks to the horse, the two were able to pass through the east gate without much trouble.
Soldiers quickly rushed to the scenes of the disasters, as if theyd suddenlye to their senses.
The chimeras werent too strong, so this should all be dealt with fairly quickly.
Francisca frowned at the unpleasant stench that arose as they headed towards the mountains.
Although nobody else could, she could feel a distinct presence.
The faint presence of death from deep within the forest.
Its distinct traits convinced her of it.
There are only a few beings that could cause all of this. Its either a dark sorcerer or
A chimera sorcerer.
Shed known it ever since she saw the first chimera.
However, the fact that she felt the aura of death despite only being at the entrance of the forest mustve meant that the sorcerer had been there for quite some time.
We need to go faster. It feels strange here.
It wasnt too unusual for a chimera sorcerer whod been dormant for a long time to make a move.
The traces of Allens partys expedition shared the same path in which the chimeras had appeared to be headed.
Sir Allen
Did he know about any of this?
She followed the chimeras path, recalling the delusion that had upied her for such a long time since her childhood.
The sun that had risen above their heads looked down upon them.
* * *
* * *
Regnor crossed the mountains at a high speed. Possibly because of his movement not being impacted by any obstacles, like a shadow.
He passed through the forest in an instant, as if walking on a clear road.
Inellia followed suit at the same pace.
She looked back briefly, contemting her lingering regret.
Linbelle.
From the second shed revealed herself, she knew that things could never go back to the way they once were.
If it has to be this way
She couldnt know for sure if they really would leave her daughter alone or not.
However, in order to make even just her free
I have to do it.
She had no other choice than to uproot herself.
She looked determined, as if having made up her mind.
Right then, Regnor stopped. He frowned as if having caught up with something bothersome.
And I thought we could get away. Tsk. Its strange that it caught up so quickly I cant believe I noticed sote.
Regnor waved his hand to signal the winged eyeball above his head.
He looked at it hovering above him and squashed it.
Inellia, you go ahead. I believe I have an intruder to deal with.
I
She hesitated. Without Regnor there, she could try to escape.
As her resolve wavered, Regnor shook his head as if it were already toote.
Were in his territory now. Do you think youd be alright if you ran away now that we''re here?
Yeah, youre right.
At those words, Inellia epted her fate with a dejected look.
Smiling as if satisfied by her answer, Regnor disappeared in a sh.
Inellia then moved into a cave that stood right in front of her. Her wings quivered, reflecting her own emotions.
* * *
Allen arrived at the entrance of the Michent Mountains with his soldiers.
The dense, widely spread trees of the mountains created a shadow.
The party marched slowly. As they had no other choice, they stood in formation to protect against inevitable attacks.
Halfway there.
The forest was quiet.
The silence of the forest, which shouldve been full of life and energy from all sorts of living creatures, proved that they were headed in the right direction.
The deeper they went, the forest became more and more gloomy,cking the whistle of a breeze or the chirp of insects.
A few monsters approached the noise that would normally be indistinguishable from the sounds of nature, but nothing blocked the partys way.
Because of that, the party was able to move at a constant speed. However, the soldiersfeeling strange in this environmentgrew more nervous and wary of their surroundings.
So Allen carefully went ahead to scout around them.
Northeast, clear! Nothing of note.
Northwest, clear! Nothing of note here either.
Southwest, clear! Nobody trailed us.
He closed his eyes as he briefed his party.
How far are we? We should be about 70% of the way there now.
The soldiers whispered amongst themselves.
Allen heard the buzz of the soldiers as he drew a map in his head.
Whats going on?
Ill go check it out ande back.
The soldier, who had been waiting for Allen to take notice of themotion, quickly moved towards the others. After a moment, the soldier returned along with two women and an embarrassed look.
Miss Francisca?
Sir.
Allen had a feeling that something had happened. Linbelles horrified yet nk look gave it all away.
It cant be
Shed changed to appear the way he once remembered hersomething he didnt want to see.
What happened?
Linbelle kept her mouth tightly shut and stared into the depths of the forest. Fransisca continued staring in the direction they were headed.
What couldve happened?
Allen had acted first because he knew the future.
Before all the damage could be inflicted, he had brought out soldiers to help to fix it.
It had only been two days since theyd arrived in the city. It was too early for something wrong to have urred.
The only difference is that Julius isnt here.
Did that mean that all of this couldve happened because of just that one thing?
Could you please exin what happened?
They quickly straightened their disheveled clothing and gave him a quick summary of all that had happened in the city.
Chimeras attacked, Inellia was kidnapped, and
Hah, so this is how the past and present be simr? Isnt it too contrived?
The reason why he had left Francisca in the city was to be prepared in case an incident arose, but he didnt think that anything would actually happen.
However, it seemed as though that disaster waited for him to leave the city before striking.
Theres definitely something.
In his memory, Linbelles motherwho had shown great talent inbat in his past lifehad been involved with them and attacked the city along with them.
However, there was something about her behavior that changed. The same could be said about the barons.
Allen smiled faintly.
Julius, Julius. What the hell even are you?
Kim Woojin, were you reincarnated from another world? Or are you some kind of apostle following a fallen god?
What are you to make it so that not acting together changes the future so severely?
Sir As his silence continued on, Linbelle faintly called out to him.
Her eyes were round and dimdesperate and chilling.
The same face hed seen in his dreams.
He had thought that he wouldnt have to see it again if he just changed the future.
Chapter 16
Chapter 16
Allen realized theteness of his response, and looked into her eyes as she stared at him.
I dont like being robbed of my possessions. Even worse, a maid Uneptable.
Thank you Really
Allen gazed nkly at her before turning his attention towards Francisca.
Miss Francisca, do you know where they went?
As he tried to ask her how far they had gone, the soldiers waiting around began shouting.
Were being ambushed!
Sir, its an ambush!
Get into position! Quickly! Lets go!
Allen quickly lifted his head.
Aaaaaaaack!
Aaaaaaaaahhh!
Uuuurrrrrgh!
Chimeras swarmed around them. The monsters charged with their legs suited for moving in the mountains, kicking their feet off the ground.
They appeared suddenly in the hundreds from every directionfrom behind and from the front, the left and the right.
However, Allen wasnt surprised by their sudden appearance.
This far into the forest should be sufficient.
The reason why he had brought so many soldiers was to match the number of the hundreds of chimeras.
"Fall in line! Move the wounded out! Follow the drill!
The soldiers whod been trained in the manor responded quickly. And in an instant, their four-sided defense formation wasplete.
Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!
ng!
Die, monster!
Stab, gash.
Allen blocked and counterattacked. As the battle continued on, the number of monsters began to decline.
He watched the scene unfold, waiting.
Until suddenly, Francisca cried out, Sir! There are moreing!
She turned to face the north.
Allen looked around the forest surrounding them.
Even in the middle of the day, the gloomy atmosphere and the well-grown ck trees around thembined into one huge mass, creating a darkly shaded space.
Theyreing!
Fransiscasplexion changed. She quickly equipped a ck shield.
Simultaneously, dark figures rose from the shadows, moving to strike her.
ng!
I cant believe you reacted in time Annoying, as expected.
Her attacker was the chimera who had run away into the mountains after leaving the manor.
The demon-looking, three-meter-tall monster covered in red muscles.
Upon recognition, Linbelle instinctively cried out, You!
Regnor chuckled.
His red eyes curved into crescents. He didnt hide his joy. It was as if he were genuinely happy to see her.
Oho Its Inellias little puppet! Youve saved me the trouble ofing to visit you on my own.
Keep my mothers name out of your mouth!
Allen grabbed her, who was about to spring to attack, and moved away from Regnor.
The soldiers were shaken by the giant chimeras appearance, but began to calm down at Franciscas unrelenting courage.
Linbelle, calm down.
Alright.
Linbelle clung to Allens arm as she stared down the monster in silence.
Regnor smiled brightly at the furious expression of the child who wouldve attacked him if not for Allens interference.
Haha, dont look at me like that Youre making me blush.
Allen red at him.
Wheres Inellia? Shes not here Which means that she must be at the workshop.
A giant circle began to spin around his heart, producing a piercing roar.
Miss Francisca.
Yes, sir?
Allen then pulled out a thread of mana.
Im sorry, but could you please handle him for me?
He knew that their best chance was for the two of them to join forces and take down the chimera. And mathematically, he knew that a 2-to-1 ratio would provide a better advantage than a 1-to-1.
Helping the soldiers get rid of the chimeras and then heading to the workshop would definitely be the better choice.
But
The thought that he had to go to the workshop right away was guing his mind.
The future he had known kept changing.
The formerly ipetent baron now took the appropriate actions. Allen had taken in Inellia as a maid to save her, but then she was kidnapped just as she had been before the regression.
He couldnt let the future be swayed any more.
Maybe, if I wait any longer than this
What he lived through in his past life would be repeated.
Therefore, he had no other choice than to ask Francisca this favor, even though he knew it would be a burden for her.
However, he believed in her, who would someday be called the Bedrock Witch.
If you do me this favor, I will certainly reward you.
Alright.
I proHuh?
I understand, so go on ahead.
Allen looked surprised at her quick consent and turned around.
Hed been concerned about how far shed differed from his understanding of her future self for some time, but hadnt had too much time to think into it.
Thank you.
B-But But Sir Allen Linbelle intervened, briefly worried about how the woman whod helped her would be fighting the monster.
Shes strong. Shell be able to handle it alone.
Shes strong Because Miss Fransisca is strong
She brooded over those words as she clenched her fists so hard that they turned white.
Okay, then. Lets go, sir.
Regnor, watching these conversations as if watching a y, began to move slowly.
Are you all finished with your chit-chat now?
ck smoke slowly began to rise up his body. His body, which could be considered a weapon all on its own, began to gradually expand.
I love this scene. Friendship, loyalty, faith. It really does make me look like a viin. Hahaha. But
Regnor suddenly disappeared.
Who ever said Id let you go?
Allen intuitively weaved mana into a tangible shield.
It broke after only a few seconds of sustaining attacks, but that was enough time for Allen to dodge.
Boom!
The ground shook, sending clumps of dirt flying.
Soldiers quickly affixed themselves into their positions on the battlefield.
The world was filled with monsters and other supernatural beings. They knew full well that even a hundred men could not beat one of them.
Try to dodge
At the very moment that Regnor moved to attack Allen, a massive tentacle came crashing into him.
Thud, thwack, crash!
Regnor mmed through multiplerge ckwood trees one after another before falling onto the ground.
Moments after, the tentacle rushed into him once more at a crazy high speed.
Go! Quickly! shouted Francisca from behind, holding Regnor off.
Well then, Ill entrust this to you.
Allen sprinted straight away with Linbelle.
A voice filled with fury and a series of loud explosions echoed behind him.
* * *
* * *
Allen was lost in his memories.
Things hadnt gone this way in his past life.
Through Juliuss capabilities stated within the Quest Window, he was able to anticipate the attack on the city and devised a strategy to prepare for the attack in advance.
Allen tried his best to prevent any opportunity for Julius to intervene in the situation, interrupting any ns he may have had.
Yet the only result was the devastation of the city.
Allen headed for the sorcerer''s workshop in an attempt to make up for his mistake with a great victory.
The trail to the workshop was faint. However, the great number of mobilized chimeras made the trail easier to track. As such, only a day had passed before they found the sorcerer''s workshop.
The security around the workshop wasx.
Nheless, it appeared to be the workshop of a sorcerer who was at a level that was recognized to have created hundreds of stupid and weak chimeras.
Because of that, he was able to break through its defenses and move through the workshop as easily as he couldve if the soldiers had been with him.
After finding it, Allen, unable to withstand the horrors of the giantboratory, ran away
I heardter that Julius dealt with the chimera sorcerer after he appeared.''
That chimera sorcerer hadnt been all that strong.
That was all, and that was the end.
So then why
Lower your head, Linbelle.
Yes, sir!
Linbelle quickly lowered her head, falling toy face-down on the ground.
A giant ax passed over her head, creating a violent and forceful breeze.
A chimera, the owner of the ax, let out a bizarre roar before collecting its weapon.
Dozens of chimeras swarmed around them.
With his back pushed against the wall, Allen sent a light shockwave towards the approaching chimeras.
Thud!
The nearby chimeras fell, creating an opening.
Using both hands, Allen entwined and unthreaded his mana into various figures. It wove into intricate shapes around the workshop.
There are so many. Is this really the same ce?
Until hed first entered the cave, hed used only his memories to guide him.
However, even more than the traps and the events of the city that he hadnt been able to foresee, the strong chimeras feasting on the citizens forced him to abandon what he recalled from his past life.
Allen swung his hand, motioning a shockwave towards his opponents and exploding it at their heads.
More chimeras cried out from behind him, filling the void hed just created.
Realizing the endless nature of this chain reaction, Allen felt like he needed to find a way to end it all at once.
His mana circle began to rapidly spin around.
Whirrrrrrrrr.
The mana began to gather together, releasing a foghorn-like roar as it once again formed itself into a thread.
Spirits, Sound, Shock, and Space.
Allenbined those four concepts in his mind, transmuting them into reality through the magical systems he understood.
The essence of mana is not to understand the world or its exploitation.
The essence of the understandable world was contorted by the will of man.
Allen thought to himself of a means to reverse this situation. Of some kind of weapon they could use to take down their enemy.
His circle spun at a high speed to extract more mana.
It doesnt need to be that strong.
He only needed enough to neutralize his enemies.
The Space he had learned throughout his life as well as his understanding and imagination of the soul started tobine and materialize.
He materialized abination of the spatial control and soul skills hed been studying throughout his life.
The thread began to weave itself behind his back. Just as a life-long seamstress would have done themself.
With sophistication. With detail.
The creation was none other than a magical phenomenon.
One by one, each technique was created at Allens will. His mana shed gray and gathered into the form of a huge drum.
Yeah, this amount of mana was around the limit of a Rank 1 sorcerer, but
It was enough.
Linbelle, cover your ears.
The chimeras, a little bit stronger than the ones that had been headed towards the city, flocked to him with their giant axes.
He closed his eyes.
He could feel Linbelle crouching by his side, her voice shaking with fear.
Allen made sure to keep her away from danger while coordinating his next attack.
The gray drum floating behind his head wiggled around and began to vibrate on its own.
He stayed calm, like a true musician.
Call of the Cradle.
Thump!
The hollow rumble of the drum resounded.
Gray waves spread from it, winding around the chimeras like a snake. Allen continued motioning his hands, as if signaling that it wasnt enough.
Thump! Thump!
Skreeeeeeee!
Uwooooh!
The spreading shockwaves began to cling to the chimeras like a curse. From afar, the waves appeared to meld together into a gray fog.
Thud! Crash!
Suddenly, the monsters began falling to the ground,nding in a running position.
Shortly after, as silence settled around him, Allen waved his hand again.
The gray drum then faded and disappeared, then he opened his eyes.
Phew
Is it all over?
Allen chuckled as he crouched down to see her with her eyes shut and ears covered tight.
Yeah.
He patted her shoulder and watched as the darkness in her wide, round eyes lightened.
Sir, this Its
As she hurriedly approached him, Allen lowered his head.
Take a closer look. It''s not dead yet."
Youre so amazing. If I were that strong
She wouldn''t have had to watch helplessly as her mother was dragged away.
Allen understood. Hed tried to change the future in order to avoid that situation.
You can be that strong too.
Me?
Yeah. Magic is difficult, but you could pick up swordsmanship.
In his memories, she was the strongest person hed ever known.
Allen smiled at her as she stared at him with a look of surprise.
He was nothingpared to her as he remembered her.
I cant believe shes so surprised by this amount of magic.
The magic he used may have seemed great to her, but it actually disyed only half of his potential.
Magic whose weaknesses are clear as well as inconsistent in influence.
The magic he had used couldve been easily blocked if one covered their ears from the sound.
He had intentionally kept her out of the magics path just in case. It wouldnt have had any effect on her anyway, since shed covered her ears.
The same goes for its effectiveness.
The efficacy of this kind of magic depended on the opponents mental fortitude.
It was highly effective against the chimeras with low intelligence, but against a remarkable warrior, it would be entirely useless.
And
If the chimera sorcerer had watched this battle, Allen couldnt even dream of using the same skill in the next battle.
He didnt think that his next opponent would be stupid enough to be affected by the same thing twice.
Since the moment he stepped into the workshop No, since the moment hed first run into the chimeras, he mustve figured it out himself.
He surely had to know how things would have to be.
He picked up one of the swords left scattered around his surroundings and shed the neck of a fallen chimera.
sh.
Its your job to cut their throats and stab their hearts. Can you try it out?
Oh, okay. Ill do my best.
Linbelle managed to raise a sword and embarked on her task of chopping off monster heads.
It was awkward the first few times, but she began carrying out her task more properly after a few tries.
Shes a natural talent.
Its all done.
Hearing her call, Allen came to his senses.
Well
Not long after, they left the area.
And somewhere beyond, about a distance away.
Within the depths of the workshop, an ominous vibration began to reverberate.
Chapter 17
Chapter 17
Allen and Linbelle raced to where Julius was.
As they continued running, they gradually encountered less and less strange decorations, contorted corpses, and chimeras. However, the air around them felt more and more ominous.
This is
Following behind Allen, Linbelle was confused by the dj vu shed experienced while going deeper into the cave.
It was clearly a ce shed never been to before. She only came because her mother was supposed to be there.
Her head became even more jumbled as they headed deeper in and witnessed more unfamiliar scenes.
What on earth is this?
Allen was confused, as he often was.
About halfway through, the cave had begun to show evidence of artifacts.
That was when the issue arose.
The deeper they went, the more traps that he had never before experienced they encountered.
At best, a trap would only drop bars on them or blow up the floor.
Sir, be carefuAck!
Allen stopped the ice pick falling from the ceiling, pulling Linbelle aside right before she could get impaled.
Crunch.
Allen quickly shattered the tool with a shockwave. Fortunately, Linbelle was able to move out of the way.
Phew
The traditional ice picks and fireballs would descend automatically, while venomous insects would suddenly jump out from below their feet if they made the wrong move.
Then, a series of tricky traps that Allen had never experienced before tormented them.
Sir, theres another venomous bug right under your foot!
Thank you.
Allen squished the venomous bug that had affixed itself to his skin.
Although numerous traps blocked their path, there were still no chimeras in sight.
Well, not exactly.
Has it been like this since I heard that vibration?
They had heard it when they first entered the cave, and since then, the number of chimeras had gradually decreased. And before they knew it, they entirely disappeared.
Rumble, wham.
Once again, the space around them began to vibrate.
As they moved closer to the explosive sound, Allen nced at Linbelles face.
It seems as though theres a fight taking ce. Its probably
It had to be Inellia.
Mom
Allens words werent spoken very clearly, but Linbelle could easily guess who it was that was participating in that fight.
Regnor.
If excluding that chimera, then the ones whod be fighting in this cave would have to be Inellia and the chimera sorcerer.
Could there be more candidates apart from those two?
The only remaining option would have to be a monster that the sorcerer controlled.
She clenched her teeth and quickened her pace. Allen silently also increased his speed, still trudging through the traps.
They were only a short distance from the sounds source.
* * *
* * *
Inellia could feel her body creaking more and more.
It was human in the first ce. However, the remains of different sprites were imnted into that body.
Maybe it was because a new species had been born or because of some sort of bizarre adaptability that had been conceived within the body that she was miraculously able to survive the experiment.
Regardless
How much longer can Ist?
More than that
Is it even possible to reach that monster?
She red at the old man in front of her with disgust.
The old man continued watching the battle, as if it were entertaining.
No, I must do it.
For Linbelles sake.
Eachponent of her patched-together body that aided in maximizing her adaptability formed into a single body.
She took out a small needle with the left hand that came from an unknown sprite. The needle grew in size and stabbed the approaching chimeras.
Stab.
She punched giant holes into the bodies of the chimeras surrounding her from all directions.
Oooh. Could that be Spriggans left hand? This is my first time seeing it in person.
Her second eye glowed golden as she swung her opposite arm like a bear.
I didnt know that the more difficult-to-identify aspects during the experimentation phase would change like that
She smashed in a chimeras head as she swung her fist backwards.
That is that Pcas transformation skill? I guess thats how you passed as a human being. How much can you do with that? Is there a time limit?
Inellia grew angry with his gaze, looking at her as if she werent a threat.
How long can Ist?
Impatient at theck of progress being made, Inellia unleashed a burst of explosive power. She grabbed an ax and split open the face of a dumb-looking monster.
She had long since recovered from the previous smaller attacks. And once again, she sliced through an approaching chimeras head.
Whose blood was it? I dont remember which one I used I cant even guess. That strength is Nixies? And then that regeneration Maybe thats from one of the trolls?
The chimera sorcerer, Deverre,fortably analyzed her as if he were just solving a simple puzzle.
There was no fear in his movements. Each time she would reveal an ability, hed do nothing but admire it, as if he felt no danger in her attacks.
Inellia bit her lip and forced her body to merge into one.
It wasnt that she was a patched-together chimera or a series of transnted parts; she really just one being.
It was as if it were the same whole body shed had from birth. Her incredible adaptability as an ability helped bring all of the parts together.
It negated the side effects of rejection and other reactions.
Yet it still wasnt enough.
The number of chimeras decreased. However, did that create any sense of danger for Deverre? She looked at his expression. The expression that showed great interest.
Countless chimeras had been killed, yet why couldnt she even get close to him? Why wouldnt the number of chimeras decrease already? Could he even be injured at all in this fight? Whats even the difference?
What about Linbelle?
Can I even protect her?
Inellia had already built a mountain of chimera corpses.
She had to choose: give her life or continue the war?
Of course.
A spellposed of colorful sprite script appeared and floated atop her fair skin.
Thats
Inellias twelve pairs of wings glowed in iridescent colors.
They were the only remnants of the sprite queen.
Mana fluctuated endlessly around her while something resembling a giant, faintly gray, vaguely shaped eye rose behind her.
Right here, right now.
Until her strength ran out entirely.
It was safe to say that she was on par with the true sprite queen, who had only appeared in legends.
Even if only with half her body, it possessed substantial power, deserving of many sprites respect.
She gained incredible adaptability from the countless sprites that had beenbined into that body.
Moreover
Vengeful spirits.
The power generated through thebination of countless vengeful spirits attached to one soul.
Although it could only be used for a moment, it was surely an option.
Its possible.
It was.
If she failed after using it No, even if she were to seed, it would be impossible to restore the energy shed already consumed.
However, it could release her from her shackles. It could kill the enemy.
Her wings trembled from the enormous pressure emanating from her still-closed eyes.
You fucking crazy!
Deverres expression changed as soon as a massive eye arose behind Inellias back.
He quicklymanded all the chimeras to rush towards her as he pulled out a strange stone de from his arms.
Red veins pulsed on the surface of the stone de and an eyeball was embedded in its center.
He didnt care too much about its appearance.
You can even use that too How unexpected.
His senile face didnt smile as if he werent embarrassed, unlike his urgent actions suggested.
Let me ask you this again. Are you sure you dont want to let me go?
Well, why would you do the same for me?
With madness-stained eyes, he looked at the eye behind her.
Theyre not of any sprite royalty. Theyre yours, and yours alone. So how?! How is this possible?
His eyes were flooded with greed and desire as well as doubt and madness.
The re. How did you get it? Its a power only ever afforded to sprite royalty!
Seems like it, huh.
Inellia. Its been so long since Ive seen you, yet youre making me so, so curious. Cant you cooperate like you always used to? Please, Im begging you.
He didnt give up until the very end, making Inelliaugh in ridicule.
The eye behind her began to open. She felt a burning sensation all over her body. However, she could bear it.
She had to.
Screeeeeee
Gack! Hrrrrk!
It was ridiculously effective.
The eye wasnt evenpletely open. Yet nearby beings evaporated into nothingness only by the light leaking from that tiny, little gap.
Regardless if they were living or dead.
She could give her life if it meant she could kill him in the process.
She closed her eyes, feeling as if life itself had begun to burn away.
She heard Linbelles voice off in the distance.
I miss you.
Inellia made her decision, giving Deverre a chance to plunge the stone de into his heart without hesitation.
Stab.
The skin around his heart began to swell up colorfully, and his appearance began to change.
His skin turned ck, and his eyes began to turn red. His hair and nails fell out, and his wrinkly skin began to melt.
Its still too early to
His voice became exceedingly bizarre, aposition of various noises.
At the same time, his veins stretched out from under his feet, attacking the surrounding chimeras, absorbing their flesh and blood into his own body.
However, Inellia destroyed all living organisms around her faster than he could regenerate himself.
By then, the chimera sorcerer realized that things hadnt gone ording to n and quickly screamed, You, you, you! Inellia, please, lets talk this through! Just this once! Just this once! If you let me talk this through, Ill let you go! Please Please!
He shouted with eyes full of both madness and sincerity. But at the same time, the veins siphoned more and more from the chimeras.
Seeing this, Inellia smiled wistfully.
Just as I thought I made the right choice.
Even with death right around the corner, he couldnt give up his greed. How could she believe the words of someone like that?
Yet some regret remained.
But
Regret or not, it didnt make any difference.
At that moment, the massive eye was almost fully opened.
No, it doesnt seem like a very good choice.
The chimera sorcerers scream rang out.
* * *
Allen briefly contemted if the situation in front of him was real.
On one side stood a sprite straight out of a legend, and on the other, a chimera sorcerer devouring dozens of chimeras.
Even for him, who had been studying magic all his life, it seemed unrealistic.
However
Ill be seeing this sort of thing much more often in the future.
Had the Julius from before the regression ever seen something like this? Faced an enemy like this?
Unraveling ancient secrets, driving off monsters, calming emerging disasters.
The situations talked about in the rumors that sounded like it came from a heroic fairy tale turned out to be entirely unbelievable when encountered in reality.
Allen saw Inellia first.
Her appearance had changed a lot since the first time hed seen her.
She no longer had fair skin, and now had twelve pairs of wings and pointed ears.
However, Allen saw something else.
The giant eye floating behind her back.
It was attached to her, yet burning through her soul.
It instilled an incredible feeling of intimidation with its existence alone.
Its dangerous. But if the eye were all the way open
She would die.
That was for certain.
That careless method of wasting life.
That was the method he had often used.
S-Sir? What are you doing here?
Inellia asked with a surprised look as Allen approached, admiring the scene in a rxed manner.
Im here to take back whats mine.
No, what are you?
Youre an employee of my household, arent you?
Her eyes asked what he was talking about, and she began to speak.
Did you take care of Regnor already?
Do you mean that big chimera? Is that Regnor? No, not quite. Ill tell you the detailster. First of all, stop that.
Allens calm eyes turned towards the eye behind her.
Even now, her life force was burning away.
Chapter 18
Chapter 18
Youre wasting your life force.
Inellia bit her lip at his remark and responded with a grim tone, No, sir. I must offer my life in order
Must what?
I must die. Or else that monster wont die either
And what about Linbelle?
I entrust her to you, sir.
Allen burst intoughter at her response.
Shes the most important thing in the world to you, yet youre leaving her to me? Thats funny.
Her eyes shook violently upon mention of her daughter. She bit her lip even harder.
If I told you she was here, would that help change your mind?
It was toote to change her mind, yet at those words, her resolve crumbled.
What?! No, sir, it cant be
As she stood with disbelieving eyes, Allen gestured towards the entrance.
At his gesture, Linbellewho had been watching from the entrancesprang out immediately and jumped into her mothers arms.
Mom!
Linbelle Why are you?
She stared at Linbelle in her arms in amazement, not refusing to loosen her grasp.
Then, she looked at Allen with a critical gaze.
Sir, why?
Mom, stop. I forced him to take me with him.
But
Inellia looked towards the chimera sorcerer with hatred in her eyes.
No, its fine.
Linbelle
It was my choice, my will. It wasnt his fault, so dont me him.
But still, bringing you to such a dangerous ce
Because of that monster?
The one whod kidnapped her mother and had drawn them there.
Thats
She was left speechless.
You came alone saying you had to kill him!
She looked around as if she had forgotten something.
I remember it here. Not too well, but I know that this isn''t a good ce. But did youe all this way to just take all of them down alone?
You knew that it wasn''t possible. Youve been hiding up until now because you knew that. Or maybe its something else? Is it because Im a burden? Like the monster said?
No!
Inellia quickly cut her off.
Its not like that at all.
I know. Its just Its just that it feels like that. With how weak and inexperienced I am
The monster who had broken into the manor saw Francisca, whom he had battled earlier.
Linbelle saw Allen defeat countless monsters.
And she felt her own powerlessness.
Linbelle knew how easily her routine could be broken, how small the world she lived in was.
I want to be stronger.
Like Sir Allen.
She looked at her aspirationhimkilling monsters and moving forward.
Linbelle held Inellia tightly, unable to hide her indecisiveness.
Could I even think about dying in front of my daughter? I cant even begin to imagine how badly that would hurt.
But if you cant kill that monster
Allen looked at her, his wordsced with regret.
Thats the question
He then walked slowly.
Ill settle things.
But, sir, Deverre is really, very strong
So what? What if he was strong?. What does it matter?
Their target was always going to be difficult to defeat.
As a maid
He had been concerned about what was toe all this time.
The things that had turned out differently than hed known them, the ever-changing future, those who were pretending to be close to him.
Francisca had acted differently than how hed remembered her.
Even though hed made the choice to rescue the citizens, it was to no avail.
Despite his efforts to take care of Linbelle and Inellia, Inellia was still kidnapped.
The chimeras and the traps that he faced were different from what hed remembered, as well as Inellias willingness to die.
Everything.
You need to listen to your master as your duty requires.
Maybe he just needed someone to direct his anger towards.
But what did that matter either?
He took what he had decided on and was onlying to get it back.
Was that not enough?
What more could there be that he needed to put up with?
So what?
I wont put up with it anymore.
A huge circle began to spin around his heart, producing that foghorn-like roar. His eyes then turned towards the man turning into a bizarre mass of flesh.
The culprit who had nted the seeds of regret in him before his regression. The monster who interrupted his ns once again.
Deverre?
The fucker who screwed him over.
He finally found him after so long.
Allens motive was simple until hede to the city: changing the past.
By solving the mistakes hed made, he would find closure. And maybe along the way, hed attract some talented people too.
That was all.
So then how?
Is that the mastermind behind all of this?
How did all of this happen?
Allens eyes stayed on the chimera sorcerer who, even now, was still consuming the chimeras around him.
He didnt panic, even when Allen had stepped in.
Because he already knew.
So youre our trespasser who came through our mountains.
Yeah. I came to get my belongings.
He gave him an odd look, concentrating his gaze towards Allens heart.
Are you aiming for the Dragon Core?
Maybe.
Youre seeking the impossible.
He looked at Allen with pity in his eyes. Allen responded with a smirk.
Does that have anything to do with the current situation?
No.
So?
I simply feel sorry for you, young one.
Hah.
Heughed.
The failure pitied him?
Chimera sorcerer, the same goes for you.
Allen heightened his senses.
Countless threads expanded and filled the air around them.
It was strange from the start.
Sorcerers could sense things in more ways than the average person. They could recognize, interact with, and manipte different forms of mana.
Both the root and result of all these processes.
To see such a waste of that sense
He could now understand why.
HeThat monster was
You were nning to use this spell from the beginning.
The chimera sorcerer was going to remodel his body anyways. He didnt need to bother with making any other sort of borate scheme ahead of time.
His ability to sense the mana around him was taken at the expense of making so many chimeras.
What would he do to deal with Allen?
Crunch.
It was simple.
One of the chimera sorcerers secrets is his ability to soften his body.
As Allen thought this, Deverres body began to contort.
He swallowed up all of the nearby chimeras, regardless if they were alive or dead, adding them to his own wriggling mass of flesh.
The giant circle around Allens heart let out a roar and began to vibrate.
Roar.
Deverre was trying to shed his human skin to be inhumanlike something out of a story.
I like you smarter folk.
He responded, grinning with the only remaining half of his face left.
Id like it if youd be a part of me. Would you please cooperate?
His frame began to change. His bubbling body began to condense into one form, unlike the previous demonic assortment of chimeras. One huge mass of flesh.
Allen could do nothing but witness it.
The act itself was disgusting, yet it was magic.
Magic.
A form ofmunication which he understood, reversing the nature of the world through the wishes of human will.
Unless the act before him was understood through that same form ofmunication, any and all acts of reverse calction and interference that he would do would be useless.
Magic originating from the realm of human imagination could run unpredictably if messed with incorrectly.
Allen shouted at Inellia and Libelle, whod been watching them nkly.
Get back.
But
I said get back.
As Inellia was about to speak, Linbelle grabbed onto her hand.
Its ok. Hell win.
But Linbelle
At the young girls urging and Allen''s order, the hesitating Inellia finally moved away from the entrance.
You arent leaving?
Who would be here to stop you?
As he spoke, Allen walked forward.
He activated his three-meter domain.
He could do anything within his little domain.
He could do it.
He had to do it.
Belief. That was the basics and mastery of magic.
Young one, are you confident in yourself?
Wouldnt I have run if I werent?
Heughed tly.
It was a certain sound ofughter. A sound that clearly said I wont let you leave.
Well all be one in a little bit
The chimera sorcerers voice became more and more clear.
A signal of thepletion of his spell.
A myriad of threads wove themselves around Allen. He took notice of his opponent.
A near-perfect muscle woven throughout the body. A total of four horns, two located on each temple, arose. Every part of his body was covered by a ck shell. And in the other uncovered areas, disgusting, dark red muscles bulged out.
Within me.
He kicked the ground.
At that moment, Deverre disappeared.
Allens face coldly hardened.
He scattered a light shockwave throughout the space around him.
Rumble
His body didn''t waver even an inch. The straightly advancing body didnt falter.
Deverre threw a wide punch. A sloppy blow. However, the resulting hit wasnt insignificant.
BANG!
It seems as though I cant handle this body How embarrassing. Haha.
His fist had smashed Allen on the floor beside him.
Allen took advantage of the new gap in the ground, using some of his threads to strike the air.
BANG!
The threads power wiped the expression off of Deverres face. Yet there were still no injuries on that face.
The shockwave lightly pped him on the face, but he shook it off. The attack couldnt have gone any better.
Thats enough, young one. Cheer up a little more. This new body is Well, itll be alright.
Deverre brandished his fist again.
The distribution of body movement, positions, and strength.
It was all extremely messy, as if it were his first time.
Yet the resulting force from all three was not light.
A scream came out from within the space. His failure to distribute his strength resulted in both the ground and the wall breaking in.
Allen watched the attack.
A stance in which it was obvious that the chimera sorcerer possessed not even the basic skills.
Allen nodded. Deverres fist had split the air by only a hair.
Fwoosh.
What was the next attack going to be?
Allen watched his opponents eyes. Slightly upwards. His lower body was twisted, his legs stretched out.
Hes leaning back a little bit.
His stretched legs ran through the space as his shirt cor wavered.
Another attack came.
However, he had to do more than just dodge them.
The way he threw his punches, his patterns, his center of gravity, the gaps in his breathing, and post-attack calcting.
Allen watched everything.
Then, he moved.
He swept his legs from the right then bent his back, taking one step to the side at the same time.
Bang!
Deverre smashed in a hole where Allen had once stood. He roared with excitement, picking up his speed.
He moved his feet.
Allens aim was a gap within the chimera sorcerers breathing.
A small shockwave cut him off.
You bastaaaaaaard!
Allens attack poured in, power flooding in from all directions like a downpour.
He closed his eyes. He was in his element anyway, so he didnt have to rely on his sight. He could feel it without seeing it directly.
He moved his upper body.
He didnt need to move it a lot, though.
Then, he nted his left shoulder.
Fwoosh!
The power pierced through the air behind the moving body.
He let out a sharp exhale.
His muscles shook, and his breathing was erratic.
rms were going off in his head.
Threads weaved themselves together within Allens domain. He formed figures with one hand, avoided an attack, and formed even more after.
The threads ovepped.
Oneyer, twoyers, threeyers.
It was no ordinary formation.
A simple shockwave couldnt even scratch it.
So?
What was it, then?
Something that could kill his opponent.
His eyes sank.
What about his body? A body based off of chimera-synthesis.
What about his strength?
His attacks?
Whats his pattern?
More.
Allens hand moved.
Behind him, a gray drum arose.
He tapped the air, and the drum resounded.
The moment the drum appeared, Deverre covered his ears despite knowing that the attack wouldn''t work on him.
A golden hammer fell through the air as his other weapons vanished.
This is!
The hammer came down faster than he could shout.
Crash!
The air shook, and a light breeze passed through.
He stepped back to think.
That was weak.
Whether it was superhuman sense or just primal instinct, Deverre sessfully evaded the hammer right before it fell.
Allen clicked his tongue and put his hands away. He observed the chimera sorcerers condition and found a small dent in the shell encasing his head.
I underestimated you. I was off my guard, thinking you were only a Rank 1 sorcerer That was dangerous.
Deverre looked at him with admiration.
Seeing that look, Allens lips twitched.
It was the extent of his physical abilities. This was his limit.
It would be bad if it were any more than this.
Allen knew.
He knew the strength, the future, and the limitations of the man who had stolen his brother''s body.
He was a hero.
He stood out in this world, quelling every disaster that appeared wherever he went.
Yet inparison, the chimera sorcerer, Deverre, the one in front of him
Is that it?
He had mixed thoughts.
Because of this bastard.
Is Rank 5 enough?
Under his concentrated will, tens, hundreds, thousands of threads wove themselves into intricate forms.
I dont even want topare us.
He arranged and aligned concepts in his head.
His imagination materialized, and reality changed.
The magic, given shape by his thoughts, gave form to each tangled thread.
The areas of magic that he had focused on during his life before the regression were Spirits, Space, and Contracts.
The nature of the world that he understood began to change ording to his will.
The ring around his heart spun around rapidly, spinning a thread.
You speak so harshly. So I wont let my guard down this time.
Deverre moved.
Allen squinted. Within his domain, he had aimed hundreds or more of green swords at his foe.
Blows from fists and shes from swords were being exchanged.
Dark green swords hit countless rigid bodies.
Deverre shattered Allens weapons while narrowing the space between them.
He quickly fixed his posture, changing from a clumsy, childlike pose to a much more refined one.
He was rapidly adjusting to his body.
Your mana maniption is exceptional. I look forward to the future.
Crack.
The swords shattered, covering the ground in its debris.
Yet there were only slight scratches on his body.
Is there any significant wound?
There wasnt.
He kicked into the ground hard.
The straight-moving oing mass forcibly amplified his senses.
Instantaneous body amplification.
Deverres fist stretched out explosively.
A simple punch made the whole space ring.
Allen''s mana, which wasnt circting inside his body, didnt amplify his senses aspletely.
He saw Deverres expression.
Glee, greed, and
Arrogance.
His ipletely amplified senses cut apart the world to analyze it.
His thoughts couldnt catch up with his senses.
His field of view became dislocated, like a shattered ss window.
Everything was ringing.
A feeling of tingling ecstasy in a world where only he existed.
Bang!
How?
What? Youre so shocked by a sorcerer using magic against you?
He didn''t mean to be crude.
An ufortable smile crossed his lips.
Give up magic, shut up, and deal with the result.
However, he did not.
Without even having a chance to finish talking, another attack came.
Allens senses were amplified again.
The world slowed down.
Everything around him disappeared until only the image of his opponent remained.
His breath, the light fur on his skin, the flying dust and dirt, the sound of his criesall of those things moved both closer and farther away at the same time.
Can I kill him like this?
Even in this situation where he could very likely die, that persons face came to mind.
His brothers face, a stolen one. That impudently grinning face.
You were always like that.
As if he were his real little brother, as if it had been like that all along.
He gathered up all his magic.
He still didnt know how to recover his brothers soul.
Regardless, time continued to flow.
When would he be able to find him again?
That bastard was getting stronger, yet he didnt have even a clue as to how to find his real brothers soul.
Whats the point of even thinking up theories?
Even if he were to find a way to get that bastards soul out of the body, Allen didnt have his brother anywhere.
He loathed it.
How much longer did he need to smile at him? What about those damned cowards hiding behind their father? And how much longer could he
But first, Ill start with this one.
He needed to make it through this in order to look into the future.
He moved, his magic assisting him.
A little more, even if it had to be forced.
Brother
His sensations amplified, his skin became painfully sensitive, and everything became clear.
He dove into that twisted scene.
Wait for me.
Wherein every moment flowed yet was unattainable.
In that ecstasy, where everything flowed by slowly
He took a step forward.
Chapter 19
Chapter 19
Chapter 19
His body moved as soon as he noticed.
Allen was already out of Deverres range by the time the chimera sorcerer showed the signs of attack.
He saw the attacking from overhead.
Allen moved his fingertips, and dark green swords came raining down on Deverre.
Unfortunately, no matter how hard he tried, Allens sword skills were far worse than that of a soldier.
Probably physically worse than the average person as well.
In that case
y to your strengths.
A myriad of swords.
The threads wove themselves together, its green hue streaking across like a shooting star.
Then, he moved.
Crackle.
Confident in his body, Deverre broke the swords with each attack. A single swing broke them, surrounding him in verbant debris.
He moved his fingertips at each attack, growing closer each moment.
ng!
Allen aimed an attack at his center of bnce.
His previously quick movements ceased.
The swords moved.
Deverres line of sight, his center of gravity, his tellsAllen already knew everything.
What else did he need?
No.
Whats the mostcking?
The never-ending barrage of raining swords continued.
Yet there were no fatal injuries anywhere on Deverres body.
AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!
The chimera sorcerer let out a terrible cry.
His muscles swelled up, ignoring the attack.
His red eyes quickly turned to find Allen.
Its difficult, trying to recover so quickly.
Hm? Are you dissatisfied with the body you''ve worked so hard on?
Laughing like a madman, Deverre responded, Yeah, its a littlecking I need a younger body, huh.
With those words, he shouted and began to close the distance between them like an aggravated bull.
Shielding only his chest, he rushed in with greedy eyes.
AAAAAAHHHHHH!
Swords rained down once again. Allens mana fluctuated.
How much longer could he hold out?
Maybe I could do this two, no, around three more times.
His body, already overworked, was severely fatigued.
He needed something that he could do in time.
He then closed his eyes.
Dozens of ideas came to mind and disappeared.
The ring around his heart began to spin rapidly, synthesizing a thread.
The thing he needed to make right now. The thing he needed to imagine at his moment.
He instantly formed, unraveled, and reformed figures again.
Then, a certain scene came to mind.
His mana responded ordingly, letting out a loud cry.
Deverre finally sustained what could be called a wound, cutting into his skin.
However, he appeared to give no care for the little scratch, and he rushed straight ahead.
Allen opened his eyes.
Now that Deverre was sure to reach him in a little bit, hed found his solution.
The chimera sorcerers red eyes glistened with excitement.
And atst, at the moment Deverre reached a transcendental level of physical ability
Prepare to die.
Allen flicked his fingertips.
Bang.
That was enough.
Allen''s body flew sideways from the strong shockwave.
At the same time, Deverres attack shook the space where Allen had been standing.
The ensuing violent gust of wind pushed their hair back.
He saw Deverre, unable to understand the situation.
Did he not think that Allen could avoid the attack?
As Allen swallowed the oing blood, he pointed his finger towards him.
However, he noticed toote. Before he could move his body, parts of the debris scattered around them began to wrap around him and grind into his body.
A body with strength that could rip steel apart with its bare hands couldnt be broken by ordinary methods.
He needed one thing: an opening.
And a sword to shove into it.
Ive found everything there is to find.
Deverre had unconsciously covered his chest with his hand.
Dozens of translucent musical instruments formed a beautiful echo around, creating harmony and resonance within the space around them.
Riiiiiiiing
The threads began to gather into one form.
His creation was intricate, as if he had dedicated his entire life to sculpting.
The desired sword.
Deverre covered his ears with more force than he thought was necessary and gave an ugly smile.
Is this also the extent of your magic? Its even more amazing than Id thought
Debris, shattered fragments, Allens threads.
All of it wove together, tangling to be one.
Separation, Amputation, Space, Spirits, Contracts, Awakening, Liberation.
He refined his imagination to transform it into magic.
The essence of magic was not studying, and a sorcerer was not a schr.
If it doesn''t make sense, then the magic cannot flow.
Magic changed reality in ordance with the sorcerers imagination.
Although the sorcerer must be brilliant in regards to their system of magic, they didnt actually need to go along with what they believed to be the essence of that magic.
If that kind of sorcerer called themself a chimera sorcerer, then the result was just that.
Now, be obedient ande be a part of me
ept the price for abandoning magic.
Above Deverres head, a sword with only half a de rose.
With an elegant smile, Allen answered as he nced at him, sitting right in front of him.
No, thats not going to be possible.
As if to mark the end of his response, he pinched his fingers together.
Because I have a lot to do.
Then, the sword dropped.
What are youHm?!
Thud!
Deverre copsed.
No, this
His body began to melt, boiling down into a steaming, bubbling liquid.
In that ck lumpy an ugly, old man.
What, can you not believe it?
Th-This is unbelievable. How? How could this happen?
You must be surprised to find that this is the result of abandoning magic.
Allen passed through the sticky liquid to stand in front of him.
The answer was simple. It wasnt his body, nor was it his soul that he was after. It was the stone sword that Deverre had put into his heart.
While blocking Allens attack, Deverre had put too much protection around his chest.
At first, Allen had written it off as a part of a means of defense. However, despite having had a protective shell to cover each vital point, Deverre still opted to perform the excessive movement in order to protect his chest.
His transformation wasntplete.
His spection became truth the moment he was about to shatter him.
Although his arms had be severely injured, Deverre continued using them to block his chest.
Speaking of, arent you curious about why Im here now?
At the end of the day, even though Allen had been half-sure, he couldnt deny that it was a gamble. With the magic he could use now, he knew he couldnt pierce Deverres armor or muscles at all.
No, it doesnt matter. Please, young one. Please spare me. Im useful, I promise.
Instead of spouting delusional objections, Deverre quickly epted reality.
Could you be in need of another servant by chance? Please, oh please, young one.
More than his strength or magic, Deverres ability to quickly ept reality and search for countermeasures put Allen off a little bit.
I have a lot of knowledge. Youre as full of treasures as how long youve lived. And thats useful. Arent you curious why I stationed myself here in the mountains?
Without hesitation, he humbly pleaded with the one who hed been fighting as an enemy only a moment ago
I dont need to keep him alive.
Allen was indeed curious about the chimera sorcerers identity and the reason why he was there. However, those were things he could just investigate on his own.
Im sorry, but I already have two maids with me.
Without hesitation, he set his foot on Deverres head.
Young one, please, please Would you happen to need treasure? Or ancient relics? Or perhaps ady?
Smash.
And like that, the master of the chimeras who had upied the area for so longthe man who had kidnapped Inelliadied so easily, unable to live up to his notoriety.
Allen held up the old mans head by the hair just in case.
Roll.
His head was swiftly chopped off with a de and rolled on the floor.
Allens heart burst with emotion. He started to rx, understanding that it was all over.
He let out a long breath. Perhaps it was because of his excessive use of magic unsuitable for a Rank 1 sorcerer, but his heart throbbed, and his fingers couldnt stop trembling.
Just like I thought, I need to raise my rank quickly. My skills too.
He had put enough effort into his spell, but it wasnt manifestedpletely.
It wasnt possible to implement all seven spells properly with only one ring.
I almost wasnt able to use one spell because of how little mana I had left
Honestly, he couldnt help but think that it was a close call.
He was able to seize the opportunity because Deverre hadnt yet given up his humanity, and he chose to act to cover up his weaknesses in a show of distrust for his body.
Nevertheless, had that also failed Allen would have had to prepare for a long battle.
Thats terrible.
It must have been a battle of whether Deverre would adapt to his body or Allen would one-up him first.
As he gathered his thoughts and removed the stone sword out of the chimera sorcerers arms, he was enveloped by a tickling sensation.
What is this?
The sensation he felt just now came from Deverre. However, he was definitely dead.
As Allen closed his eyes and heightened his senses, two lines that were connected to the corpse had be visible.
The strings shook violently, as if they could vanish at any second.
Could it be?
The corners of his mouth rose.
If he was correct, he wouldve reaped a valuable harvest.
Upon closer inspection, those two lines appeared to be connected to Inellia and Regnor.
Allen quickly gathered the two strings.
The wavering strings connected to Allen, shing white for a period before bing clear and stable.
How nice.
The result he had gained from researching the contract system.
Allen had never been so grateful that he had mastered the said system.
And
His gaze soon turned towards the stone swordying on Deverres chest.
Perhaps it was because of his magic, but its ugly appearance had changed to a in stone sword.
A pattern appeared to be engraved on it.
Eight small dots rotated in different directions around a red eye
Its like a star.
However, there was no evidence there other than that.
The stone sword appeared to be made of even smallermon stones.
What was unusual was that it was well-polished, so much so that his face reflected on the surface.
Allen recalled the pattern on the sword as he held it in his arms. Looking around, he saw a familiar scene smashed in by their battle.
Rotting bodies and various unidentifiable parts.
In that time, he also found countless bodies that had appeared to have recently died.
A certain scene came to mind.
A skull-stacked altar, a blood-covered floor.
Bodies scattered around, as if there were no respect for death.
Whos ming who?
He had many thoughts.
Heid the corpses down on the ground, one by one.
Their bodies were sparse. Some without arms, others without legs. Their eyes scowled at him.
He moved one.
Knowing about the future doesnt mean that you know everything going into it.
He moved another.
For everything to go as youd nned, you might as well be god.
This time, a childs body. He paused for a moment.
The child was a girl with reddish-brown hair. She wouldve been cute if she were alive. She was surely loved.
Yet now, her pupils were empty.
Allen quickly tamed his wavering emotions. Would the result be different if he hadnt waited and instead acted quickly?
He shouldnt have waited for his father to test him, but if hed made a move without being told
No, thats wrong.
Waiting to get the right timing was the best option. How could he even know that he would get the ideal oue from rushing things? The end goal was to save his brother.
The end result here was that he had won his brothers favor.
However, in exchange, a resident
Im sorry.
The words spilled out from his mouth. He quickly let them out. It wasnt like anyone was watching.
Because I couldnt get here any sooner Because I couldnt protect you all
His mouth didnt stop moving. Words kept flowing out like waterfalls, as if there were an open dam on his face.
I just wanted to save my brother No, it was my greed.
He had to save his brother. He wanted to.
However, if he asked himself whether or not it was necessary to replicate his past actions, he couldnt answer.
Because he didnt want his knowledge of the future to change.
There were plenty of other ways. We couldve cleaned this ce out quickly and finished up all the monsters that popped up afterwards, or something.
There was a way.
It wouldve worked out if, after a few months, he couldve sorted out the monsters who appeared in the region and dealt with those trying to undermine his family and their status.
Its just Its just that.
Since I was also here in the past, I wanted to take advantage of it.
Just waiting for incidents to arise and preparing for them. Howfortable.
No reason to be afraid of sudden idents, no reason to be surprised.
It wasfortable when you could act calm, as if you knew everything.
And because of that, all of you are dead.
Whats the difference between the two of them, then?
Is it right to sacrifice innocent people for your own personal gain?
The worries that hed already resolved once again asked him:
Can you do it?
Under the guise of saving your brother, can you sacrifice everything else?
I I can.
He could. He had to.
He felt nauseous. Dizzy.
What was he even doing here now? He wasnt with Julius.
It was all just an excuse.
So now he was serious about epting him as his little brother? Haha. What augh.
Providing the family with his knowledge of the future that he could remember, collecting beautifuldies, and just waiting for disasters after already thoroughly preparing.
Like a bastard? Like that?
I cant do it like that.
An emptyugh passed. He couldnt do it.
All the bodies had been moveddozens of them.
How many young people had been taken even before then?
It felt like all of the dead children were staring at him.
He didnt hide from their gaze.
This was going to happen again in the future.
In order to win Juliuss favor.
To find treasure.
Or for the changing future.
Nevertheless, would he act as he had now?
I
He turned.
The wind blew, mixing with the foul stench.
I will remember you all.
Allen felt someones gaze from behind him. He didnt look, but took a step backwards.
The entrance was still filled with that terrible smell.
That god-awful stench.
Chapter 20
Chapter 20
Chapter 20
Byron gave an emotional nce at the duke''s second son.
Arrest the young lord!
Yes, sir!
You, catch the officials who ran away, and then bring them here."
Yes, sir!
Hede to deal with the disappearances that had been urring in the nearby territory of Garvia.
Have we dealt with all of the corrupt people?
Yes, sir! Weve caught them all and are now monitoring them.
He not only killed the orchestrators of the disappearances, but also became the savior who freed Garvia from its previously tyrannical lord.
And
The soldiers rushed along.
At the same time, a man covered in dirt was being dragged along the ground.
The opportunists whod followed the corruption and tyranny had fled just in time, and the residents stepped up to help the soldiers to vent their anger.
Due to that, there was an uproar filled with all kinds of shouting and noise.
Sir Julius! Weve managed to chase down the Minister of Finance.
Is that so? Make sure that you get proof from him that he cheated on the ledger. And Hm?
After Byron calmed his racing heart, he turned towards him, the center of it all.
Sir.
Lord Byron.
Julius greeted him as if it were a good thing that hed approached him.
Sir Julius. I graciously thank you for liberating our long-suffering Garvia.
Up until yesterday, the residents had no choice but to put up with their persecution. But now? Taking a look around, there wasnt one face without a smile.
Lord Byron, theres no need to say that. As the child of the duke, it was simply my duty.
No, sir.
Byron shook his head.
There were numerous evil nobles in the world. Many of which didnt even seemoners as people like them. Due to that preconception, he didnt expect much of Julius at first.
The aristocratic rulers of Garvia were like that, but those who ruled over thisnd were different.
That was what Byron thought.
That Julius was no different.
That they were all the same.
Especially with Juliuss infamous reputation, Byron didnt bother to expect a single thing from him.
Byron may be different.
Upon hearing of the idents, Juilus immediately sought out the truth behind them without defending the rulers of Garvia as an aristocrat like him.
The image of him briefly gazing out into the sky had already be infamous to those around him.
Yeah, its him.
Julius recalled his own convictions.
Byron was supposed to be a knight.
He couldn''t be a real knight by using prana, so he tried to make his actions reflect those of a knight.
In general, one could be recognized as a knight by using either magic or prana. However, simply acting like a knight wouldnt garner the same recognition.
So he tried again, using magic to try to be a real knight.
Was it right to do nothing when a true follower of knighthood like Byron had appeared?
Like I thought, you cant trust the rumors. I cant believe theyre putting down a person like this
You can only truly know someone after meeting them.The bad rumors across thend mustve been a part of some conspiracy against Julius.
Before he knew it, Byron was bowing his head to him.
Thanks to you, sir. Many shall now be able to create a future.
At first, hed been worried about such a young personing to aid the city.
However, he saw Juliuss spirit while defeating the orchestratorsa strong force, unexpected for his age.
And now
Would it be alright if I came to serve you as my lord, Sir Julius?
He saw his sincerity and care towards the residents.
Sure.
Julius replied with a pleased face, as if hed been waiting for this.
He tried as hard as he could to hold back hisughter, but he couldnt help but smile, unable to hold back his satisfaction.
Finally, I got Byron.
Byron, the Knight of Order.
Using magic as well, he was the only one who joined the Berserk Knights, the continent''s most prestigious knighthood that only hosted knights that could use prana.
Julius was starting to give up because the knights whereabouts were unclear, but he didn''t know that Byron would be here.
Byron, I allow you to be my knight.
Julius had put a lot of effort into recruiting him.
He had yed a role ording to Byrons ideals and answered questions in the way he thought the knight would like best.
In the process, he did Quests, raised his reputation by confronting their tyrannical lord, and contributed much to themunity.
Juliusughed aloud at his situation. Everything was going so smoothly.
I look forward to your continued support.
Without knowing a single thing.
* * *
* * *
Allen came out of the cave to meet up again with the party hed left earlier.
They were waiting at the entrance, apanied by a few soldiers.
Sir!
Sir Allen.
Linbelle and Inellia appeared to have escaped the cave safely.
Surely, everything theyd seen had been destroyed since theyd entered the cave, so it would have been easy to get out.
Linbelle approached him, bowing her head while doing so.
Thank you, sir.
Her eyes were swollen.
Thank you for saving my mother, she said as she bowed countless times.
Allen didnt reject her thanks, as it was her own way of apologizing.
She looks better.
It was a bit different than hed seen in the city, butpared to when she was together with Francisca, her expression looked better.
She looked back at Inellia, who was smiling brightly and bowing.
Thank you for saving us.
She smiled the same as Linbelle. Yet upon closer inspection, her eyes had also turned a little red.
Allen experienced a range ofplex emotionsa mixture of the sense of achievement from fulfilling his purpose ofing here as well as the bitterness of being unable to sessfully prevent the damage.
I look forward to your help and support.
Yes, of course! Well do our best!
Alright.
They would need to fix some things, starting from the way they spoke to learning manners as well.
Thinking that they would get upset if they heard such a thought, Allen asked about the whereabouts of the rest of the party instead. The fact that there were so few soldiers present meant that the battle must have ended.
Where are the other soldiers? And Miss Francisca?
Theyre
With an ufortable smile, Inellia looked towards the forest.
Allen hardened his expression.
What happened?
Examining the soldiers expressions, they didnt look happy either.
Is the battle still not over?
No, the battle has finished Its just
Allen looked at the speechless Linbelle. She looked upset, as if something unsettling hade to mind.
He then turned towards the soldiers, and one of thema veteran soldierquickly approached him and began to speak.
No.
Sir Allen, the other soldiers
He tried to speak up.
AAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!
However, before the soldier could exin the situation, a scream rang out from within the forest.
Allen hurried towards the sound, Inellia and Linbelle following him reluctantly.
The soldiers didnt look optimistic, yet they hurriedly followed him as well.
Allen pondered the strangeness of their reactions and headed to the source of the scream. It grew louder as they approached.
P-Please! Aaaaaahhh!
StopStop killing them. Were human! I Urgh!
As he gradually got closer, Allens expression changed subtly to the sounds he heard.
It cant be
Once hed finally arrived at the source, he could see it.
The former three-meter-tall chimera that was now wriggling around without arms or legs.
His hornseven one of his eyeshad been pulled out. Compared to before, when he was full of energy, hed be a mangled mess.
And she, the woman who had put him in that situation, shook her head.
Oh my. Sir, did you take care of the chimera sorcerer?
She approached Allen as she used her sleeve to wipe off the green blood that umted over the night.
The remaining soldiers waited by the side just in case, but their faces had all turned pale.
Yes, but thats
No! The master cannot be dead! Master! If you can hear me, please, help your faithful servant Gurgle!
As Allen was interrupted, Francisca frowned and ced her hand into the fallen chimerascerated stomach.
My, my, he cut you off He never listens. My apologies, sir.
Allen ufortably epted her apology.
Regnor had been quite arrogant in his memory.
Yet what on earth was this scene in front of him?
Stop, stop! Dont show off my organs! Oh, Master! Please! I know youre alive! Please, please help me
He still hasnte to his senses yet.
Linbelle, unfamiliar with this kind of brutal sight, looked sick to her stomach.
Inellia watched the scene without emotion. Shed already witnessed many sights like this. Compared to her daughters reaction, it had little effect on her.
Francisca, whod been bothering Regnor for a while, only got up to cleanse her hands when he went quiet.
At that, the soldiers took a few quick steps back.
Is there a reason why that bastard shouldnt be dead by now?
Well, one would be his continually regenerative nature, and another
She pointed towards the chimera, giving anothervery magicalreason.
Would be for the sake of magic research. He was studying a system of magic very simr to that which I was studying, so there were a few things I wanted to look at.
She shrugged.
Allen understood what she was talking about.
What was strange about a sorcerer taking action in order to seek knowledge?
The system of magic that she was using was the one that she woulde to establish in the future. Therefore, she seemed to be refining the system, which was not yet perfect, by seeking out knowledge.
Allen smiled at her response.
So I think this will help a lot.
Allen watched new flesh sprout out from Regnors severed arm, materializing one of two lines connected to him.
This is!
She looked at it with curiosity, hurrying towards it.
No way.
Its a contract connecting that chimera with its creator. Perhaps because of his low faith in his creator, it seems as though hed practically worshiped the chimera sorcerer.
It was the same thing as when hed been calling for the deceased Deverre earlier. Allen watched him, still wriggling around like a worm.
Maybe thats why he still thinks the chimera sorcerer is alive.
Francisca, whose eyes had been sparkling during his exnation, quickly asked him, Sir, by chance, could you possibly give me that chimera? Id be d to offer you
Yes, go ahead.
Perhaps surprised that he was more willing to grant her request than shed thought, she quickly blinked her eyes.
Youve helped me, free of charge, yet is there anything that I cannot give you?
That was what hed been nning to do the moment he got hold of Regnor.
There were many ways to use that chimera. He could be used as an escort, or if that didnt work out, then as a weapon or a trap.
Or to pay off the debt he owed the sorceress.
This should be enough to cover it.
Besides, the chimera wouldnt have been that useful to him.
His funny appearance, his devilish nature
Devil?
Of the hypotheses exining Allens regression, one came to mind.
The possibility that the regression was rted to the devil.
Hm But he doesnt have the same sticky feeling as the devil
Allen paused, feeling a difference between how he felt now and when he faced the devil at the very end of his past life, right before his regression.
Sir?
Ah, its nothing.
He stopped his thoughts before Francisca could feel anything strange and attached her to one of the two linesing off of Regnor.
I could ask her to look into itter.
What was different. Where it was off.
It was something he needed to check.
As soon as Allen connected that line to her, the chimera felt something strange, and his limp body began to struggle as if it had gone crazy.
No, no! ThisThis is No, no, no, no! Master! Help! Please! Please!
Francisca came to her senses as Regnor began to lose his, and she stared nkly at the line trailing off of him.
Ill temporarily fulfill the contract for now. Sorcerer Prindal is studied in the contractual system, so he can adjust the termster.
Allen flicked his hand. Then, aplex string of letters shot out of his body and instantly wrapped around the line connecting Francisca and Regnor.
He subtly watched the effects of the contract on the behavior of the line.
The restrictions weren''t too strong from the start.
At the very least, could it prevent the chimera from leaving a certain area?
If so, it was understandable that Inellia was able to stand up against him with the contract.
Whoa So thats magic.
Linbelles pale face disyed a look of admiration.
Perhaps because it was also their first time seeing magic so closely, the soldiers stared nkly at the scene, as if hypnotized by it.
Allen continued his work, regardless of their gazes.
As he moved his hand around in the air as if writing something down, the string of characters that was wrapping itself around the line burst and streamed into Regnor''s head.
AAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!
The chimera lifted his head up using only his abdominal strength and mmed his head into the ground repeatedly.
Thud! Thud! Thud!
The characters streamed into Francisca as well.
Shed been nervous about the pain that would ensue from the process. However, contrary to her expectation, she didnt feel any pain.
As she turned her head, Allen gave a slight smile and asked slyly, Would I ever do you any harm, Miss Francisca?
She silently nced at him.
Does it feel good to lie to me?
Im sorry if I offended you. I felt as though you were too nervous.
As Allen shrugged, Francisca took a deep breath.
The soldiers, who had been in a daze, came to their senses with his joke.
During their brief conversation, the magic appeared to have gone smoothly.
After a few moments had passed, Regnor approached the sorceress expressionlessly.
Or more specifically, he wormed his way towards her.
From now on, I shall devote my everything to you, my new master.
She smiled pleasantly, satisfied with the oue.
Haha, Im really looking forward to continuing my research.
Regnor eventually became Franciscas servant, and Inellia was safely rescued.
Its all over.
The chimeras whod attacked the city had all been taken care of by now, and since the chimeras whod attacked them had all been defeated already, all that was left to do was to clean up.
Allen looked around the cave with inquisitive eyes for a moment,ing to his senses when a voice called out for him right in front of him.
A deste breeze blew from behind him and silently wrapped around him.
Lets go.
Chapter 21
Chapter 21
Chapter 21
After the party had returned to the sorcerers workshop and sorted out all the bodies, they began exploring the area.
The chimera sorcerer had stashed his collected fortune in his workshop. Grimoires and some ancient relics, mostly chimera-rted or a part of somethingrger.
There werent many things of practical use.
Linbelle, whod been expecting gold and silver treasures, looked a bit dejected. However, she quickly came to her senses and began searching for other things with curiosity in her eyes.
Inellia looked at her with tender eyes and followed her.
Was he lying when he was going on about his treasure?
Even if Deverre truly did have great wealth here, he wouldve set up traps and used it to help him harvest materials.
Theres a possibility that he couldve hidden it somewhere else in the mountains, but
There was no reason to go looking for an unknown amount of wealth.
As a token of goodwill, Allen gave all of the magic books rted to chimeras over to Francisca, who happily epted.
Among the things they gathered, Allen took only one item from the workshop.
Banshee Tears.
A potion concocted by softening the entire body of a banshee.
The process of making it was difficult and time-consuming, yet the result was a precious item that could perform most curses.
After Allen found that sole item, he went to help the soldiers move the corpses.
The very same scene he had witnessed in that nightmare.
Unlike then, Allen didnt try to run away.
Silently, reying all of the scenes theyd seen as if engraved in their eyes, they returned to the city together. Upon arriving, they gifted the chimera sorcerers remaining wealth to the families of the victims.
After that, Allen went somewhere alone for a while before returning with a troubled face.
And like that, they left the city.
Hooray!!
Its Sir Allen!!
Before they could walk out the south gate, the residents cheered loudly for the party. Seeing this, Linbelle pouted.
We were there too It feels kinda unfair.
Well, Sir Allen did everything, not you.
As Inellia corrected her, Linbelle''s cheeks reddened, and she red at her mother. Inellia could only awkwardlyugh.
You didnt do anything either, Mom
What?
At the end of the day, you didnt do anything either, you know.
Y-You
Hmph, Im just teasin ya. You and I are just the same Ah! H-Hold on a second, Mom!
Allen watched the pair arguing in the carriage. Although, Linbelle did appear to be smiling. She looked as though she were smiling yfully, but the corners of her mouth stiffened.
She hasnt gotten over it yet.
It wasnt as severe as her mothers death in her previous life, but it was clear that witnessing her kidnapping had produced a profound effect on her mind and body.
The reason why she was acting that way now Could it be an attempt to forget the bad memories?
Shell get through it herself.
Allen closed his eyes, brushing it off as nothing. He knew that she could ovee that much, since hed remembered her to be so strong in his previous life.
Speaking of his previous life, he remembered the ce he had checked before leaving the city.
Why was there nothing there?
Allen had searched for the ce where Julius had hidden Baron Bellournes secret books and money before his regression.
Julius had used it to take down Baron Bellourne, gaining des and earning the support of the residents.
However
I cant believe there wasnt even a trace of it.
As if such a ce had never even existed at all, there was no trace of it.
It was something he hadnt noticed before the regression.
Hed thought itd be lucky to find it. However, the more he pondered it, the more he felt a vague sense of danger.
He looked through the ck book.
Julius was entrusted with the quest of exposing the corruption of Baron Bellourne, whod been hoarding the territorys money. Suggested time: 6 hours. Quite a tight deadline.
Luckilyas hed very nearly hit the time limithe found the ce where the baron had hidden his possessions and ledger with the help of the residents whod been subjected to his tyranny.
As the barons pattern of ipetence would suggest, he indeed did put all of his eggs in one basket. All evidence was located in a forest clearing near Hibelle, with nobody guarding
It was a struggle, but he seeded in incriminating both the tax-siphoning lord and the vassals whod assisted him. They would now be transferred to his territory
Baron Bellourne was an aristocrat.
No matter how dumb he may have been, to put all of the evidence in one ce?
Against many peoples understandings, ipetence and idiocy were different things.
To even mess up with that informationhis life-threatening secret.
Is it possible that a resident just found out by chance that they were being exploited?
Sure, maybe Baron Bellourne really did do it because he was more stupid and ipetent than I had thought. But to be so stupid that he carelessly risked his own life?
Even though hes an aristocrat?
Members of the aristocracy received specialized education thatmoners did not, wherein they learned to have dignity and manners.
It may not seem like much to other races, but if they were considering only humans, his abilities would surely be towards the top. If he were truly terribly stupid from the beginning, he couldnt have been able to run the estate at all.
Did he not act normally in this life?
It was as if it proved that everything done before the regression was just an act.
Until only a little while ago, it was only a suspicion, but now, Allen was almost certain.
What changed him?
He could feel that something big was lurking around that he didnt yet know about. He was d that Baron Bellourne seemed to be the only one acting like this thus far. However
What would happen if something simr had happened to Julius in Garvia?
What constituted a real duke?
W-Wait, Mom, that ticklesAck!
Respect your mother.
Allen smiled as he watched the pair fight. There were lots to do as they returned to the Reinhart manor.
* * *
* * *
Shortly after returning home, Allen was able to face Gaielle, the head of the Reinhart family. Julius had returned to the manor before him, but they were called to the study together.
Yes, I already read the report that youve sent. First of all, good job. You sorted things out quickly. Both of you.
Gaielle watched Julius with thoughtful eyes. They were right. About how their original n had gone awry yet they still produced good results
No, but now what?
He shook his head. He had already chosen. It was inevitable. He knew that he could gain a lot from him. There was no use in regretting the past.
First, Allen. Impable work. You coordinated with Baron Bellourne, came up with a strategy, and dealt with the mastermind behind it all in that time. Chimeras did manage to break into the city, but I wont say more, since she did a good job handling it.
After ceremonially congratting him for his achievements, Gaielle turned to Julius.
Youve done a lot. You dealt with the culprit of the idents in Garvia and recovered the hidden ledgers and taxes stolen by Baron Fern, the lord of Garvia
Julius trembled in humility, barely able to stop his wriggling lips.
No, sir. It was only possible due to the residents cooperation
However.
Gaielle stopped him there, making eye contact with Julius.
You went beyond the authority delegated to you. Not even with the title of Lord yourself, but with the title of the Second Young Lord, you brought down the Lord of thend?
Gaielleughed briefly before continuing in a reproachful tone.
Tell me, Julius. Are you the head of the Reinhart family?
But Father, it was because of me that
Gaielle interrupted him and answered shortly, Sure, because of you, the stolen taxes were recovered and Baron Fern and his aplices were captured as well. However, that doesnt mean that what you have done can be forgotten.
Allen felt the situation to be contrived, as if his father were acting like he was intending to be listened to.
Is he trying to kill Juliuss drive? No, its probably more that hes trying to reset their rtionship.
However, Julius didnt seem to be able to feel the difference. Yet Gaielle continued as Juliuss expression contorted, a mixture of dissatisfaction and annoyance.
Despite that, the contributions youve made arent forgotten either. It was beyond your authority, but you maderger contributions than was expected of you.
Their father promptly took two small keys out of a drawer and threw them one by one at them.
So, decide for yourselves.
This is
There were blue letters circling around the key, forming a small band around it.
Theyre keys to reports that disappear after one look. Pick one and go.
Father
And itste to say this, but Julius, youve passed your test. Congrattions.
As if he never had anyints, Julius shouted out with a bright, red face, Thank you.
In contrast, Allen replied rather indifferently, as if watching a y.
Thank you, Father.
Gaielle, who was staring at Allen during his brief reply, nodded slowly and gave a congrattory message.
Its been a long time since youve been home, so Im sure youre both tired. But if you ever desire to go out, you can go on your own and leave now.
Understood.
Julius clumsily bowed and walked out. Allen stayed, however, as if he had something left to say.
Whats wrong? Gaielle asked with a quizzical look.
I have a quick request to make of you, Father.
What is it?
While we were there, I recruited twomoners to serve here as maids.
Ah, is that it? I read it in the report. Linbelle and Inellia, right? From a hunting vige
Yes.
Allen. You remember that every time Eliza was asked to hire a maid, as far as I know, shes refused It doesnt matter to me.
Contrary to Allens expectations, Gaielle gave his consent.
I dont care who you hire or what you do. As long as its the right choice for you.
After adding in that unnecessaryment, he returned to his seat to continue his unfinished work.
You cant do it properly yet, so if you want to get them trained, ask Eliza directly.
Mother?
Yes. If theyre to be her sons maids, shell want to meet them. You said that you regret not seeing her much these days, too, so youd better go see her.
He didnt feel as though hed paid any less attention to his mother after his regression. He had nothing to worry about, except that shed appeared to have fallen in love with luxury.
Alright. But Baron Fern
How did he intend to deal with him?
Stop.
His father interrupted him, not wanting to hear any more.
Drop it. I dont want to talk any more today. Go now.
Father.
Allen bit his lip. He wanted to speak with Baron Fern directly.
Unlike how hed remembered Baron Bellournes ipetence, the baron could make good judgements, although somewhatcking.
So then what about Baron Fern?
Would he also be different from how Allen had remembered him?
He was currently imprisoned within the family home. There was no other time to meet with him. After all, he wouldnt be able to avoid punishment for too long.
I need to find out why people are changing. A clue, at least.
However, his father was stubborn.
Father, Baron Fern is really
Allen.
Allen could see that his word was final.
It cant be helped.
Baron Bellourne and Baron Fern. Aside from them, the assumption that there was something controlling them was really just a guess, wasnt it?
Since Allen had no substantial evidence, it wasnt possible to create a justification for meeting with him.
I wont say it twice.
Understood.
There was no choice but to look for another opportunity.
Ill have to find a way quickly.
Allen bowed his head ording to etiquette and left the study. After the two sons left, the study became silent. Then, a maid who hade into the manor only a few days ago carefully knocked on the door.
Knock, knock.
Sir, Ive brought what youve ordered.
I never asked anyone to run errands No, wait,e to think of it, I think I did.
Gaielle, who had almost refused her visit, quickly granted her admission after only a moments thought. The maid was one of the few who had juste to the manor a few days ago. As soon as the door closed, she knelt and began to speak.
Im here to deliver a message from Kasha, sir.
As if very familiar with her, Gaielle asked with an annoyed look, Do you change your face every time youe here? Its of bad taste.
Your son seems to have good taste.
Which son? Allen? Julius? Someone else?
Gaielle stopped searching for an answer, tantly avoiding the task.
He had never seeded before.
Its no use.
You are the same way, my lord.
Gaielles eyebrows flinched. As he showed his difort, the maid continued, lowering her head even further, Ill get to the point.
From the moment hed heard the name Kasha, Gaielle had focused all his attention onto her. He wasnt particrly talented, and he wasn''t too strong for other reasons, but he was surely strong enough to subdue a maid if necessary.
What is their message?
They told me to tell you, I was right.
At those words, Gaielle stiffened. He tried to act naturally, asking questions nonchntlyjust like normal.
So? Is that all they wanted to say?
And, Didn''t I say that everything would work out no matter where you sent him?Thats what they wanted me to say.
After that, Even if they were sent without any support, if the conditions were sufficiently met, the same result would have been produced.
How could I send him alone while having the prestige of a duke? Even a hundred elite soldiers arent good enough to support one with that title.
You still cling to the little things, sir.
Gaielle continued with a convinced tone, tantly ignoring her words, And? That cant be the end of it.
When asked if that was the end, I was told to answer as follows, Please turn a blind eye to the smaller disturbances going forward, the maid replied, nodding without sign of displeasure at his interruption.
If you deny this, In the future
Stop. I never told you that I was going to deny it.
Haha.
She intentionallyughed at him. Gaielle remained silent at her attitude. Her face wasnt visible to him, since she had been bowing.
Yes, Kasha said that you would also do that. If you cooperate so that no big trouble arises, the previous promise will be upheld.
Alright.
Well then
Finishing her task, the kneeling maid fell sideways. She suddenly opened her eyes, as if her personality had changed.
What What am I doing here?
She looked around, trying to find out where exactly she was, and she found Gaielle staring at her.
S-S-S-Sir
After watching her for a while, he sighed at the fact that he couldn''t figure out anything anymore and spoke to her with a gentle expression.
You must be tired. You brought me what I asked for and then copsed. Ill give you the day off to rest your mind and body and take care of yourself.
Y-Yes, sir. Thank you?
She had no idea what had happened, so she simply bowed to her master. She thought about what to do with her sudden break and left the study with a puzzled look.
Gaielle quietly closed his eyes and sunk into his chair.
When? When will it be?
He covered his eyes with his rough hands.
He needed a drink.
The kind of drink that would make you heavily inebriated after only one sip.
Chapter 22
Chapter 22
What did you say?
Allen couldnt understand the news hed just heard.
Baron Fern escaped?
Yes, sir! That is the news circting amongst the maids right now.
Linbelle replied, batting her sparkling purple eyes,fortable in her bed. Allen looked at Inellia, who silently nodded in agreement.
There was no reason for them to be lying. Even more so if it was a lie that could be quickly found out.
No, ha. It cant be
It was said that one was left speechless when overly shocked, and now was proof of that.
Baron Ferns ce of imprisonment was only an annex away from the main building. He was meant to be kept there until tried by Duke Gaielle, his master.
So how?
The crippled Baron Fern, from a solitary cell without sunlight, defeating the soldier guarding the door? In a way where nobody saw it? All while avoiding the attention of all of the servants within the manor?
He escaped?
Dumbfounded, Allen burst into a fit ofughter.
Was the level of security at the manor sox?
Because Inellia and Linbelle hadn''t been properly trained yet, their behavior was awkward, but having them there was still faster than changing his clothes alone.
I should go to my father.
Allen took a deep breath. He could guess that his father had had a hand in this. So it would backfire on him to act emotionally. As such, he took a moment to calm down while standing in front of the door to his fathers study and raised his hand.
Knock, knock.
He knocked with a touch of aristocratic grace, incongruent with his impatient intentions.
Father, its Allen. May Ie in?
With the same stiff tone as usual, Gaielle allowed his visit.
Come in.
His father stared at him with his usual cold face.
Struggling to suppress the doubts guing him, Allen asked, Father, have you heard the news of Baron Ferns escape?
Yes, I was told early this morning as well.
His fathers expression remained unchanged, suggesting that he had indeed already heard the news. Not needing to say anything else, Allen stated his intentions directly.
I will set up a search party to find him.
Theres no need.
Father.
Weve already sent a search party after him, so theres no need.
His father answered without hesitation, as if hed expected it. Allen couldnt understand what it was he wanted.
What the fuck was he thinking? Everything in the manor was under his control. Yet nobody saw Baron Fern escaping?
In that case, where is Sorcerer Prindal? If hes with them, theyll catch him in no time.
Was it even possible to safely evade a Rank 5 sorcerer? He was lucky enough to have escaped at all, but hed surely be caught quickly now.
Did he not return to the house with Julius at all? Even though I clearly saw Francisca go to meet with him?
If he were in the manor, theres no chance he wouldnt have noticed.
Sir Prindal had something urgente up right after his return. He left together with Miss Francisca.
Is that so?
What a coincidence.
The night that Baron Fern escaped, the Rank 5 sorcererthe one who could detect his escape faster than anyone elsehad to leave town for something urgent?
What was Baron Ferns true identity? What was Gaielle scheming? No, was it even right to call it scheming?
A feeling of difort of unknown origin wrapped around Allens body, making him feel stuffy, as if walking through a thick fog. This time, too, his ck book and his memories from before the regression were of no use.
But what was even the point of knowing the future?
Only the biased information from Allen and Juliuss memories were of value.
However, it was impossible to find information about the distant future from the book, so the frustration returned twofold.
There isnt enough information.
He took a deep breath.
In any case, his father had no intention of revealing the truth. Wasnt it clear that this was then the only way to proceed?
If I cant find out anything about Baron Fern
Please swear on mana, Father.
Gaielle just watched him quietly with his deep eyes.
I shall graciously pay the price of my disrespect. Please forgive me.
Their gazes met. His father was always like that. Back then, now, and in the future too.
Swear on mana that you were not involved in Baron Ferns escape.
How long must they have simply stared at each other?
Just after the clock had ticked in that quiet room thirty times, his father began to speak.
Now, I must know of your disrespect towards me.
Could his heir even call on him, the duke, to take an oath? Yet he couldnt help but confirm this.
Maybe it was all a coincidence? Maybe it was his father''s will, or there was someone behind the scenes manipting it all. If not, what else couldve been involved?
I will take responsibility for my actions.
He had to know for sure. That was the only reason why Allen had acted out so rudely, something hed normally never even think of doing. That kind of behavior that hed detestedunaristocratic behavior. Acting without logic or reason.
He felt ufortable, but it couldnt be helped. There was no other option.
I shall graciously pay the price of my disrespect. Please forgive me.
Gaielle stared at Allen for a while before speaking quietly. The words came out slowly.
I never helped Baron Fern escape. I swear on mana itself.
Mana rushed and winded around his body.
And
Are you satisfied now?
Nothing happened.
Gaielle spoke to him with a calm face.
This time, Allen, I will ept this as a behavioral outlier made in fear that Juliuss sesses might be tainted by Baron Ferns escape.
Allen knew what he really meant.
Everyone here knows how you think so much of your brother, so Im sure theyll understand this as such.
It was just an excuse. Gaielle would help him save face so that Allen wouldnt have to run away.
So, go rx in your room. Got it?
Yes, I understand.
At that, Allen firmly nodded. In any case, the actions he just witnessed had decisively proven who had taken the lead and assisted with the escape.
As he walked out of the study, Linbellewho had been waiting in front of the studywhispered softly, likely worried about Allen who had entered with a much more optimistic expression.
Are you okay, sir?
Yeah.
Why dont you take a little break?
Allen shook his head at her words. He didnt have enough time to rest in his room. Even if he couldnt pursue Baron Fern, there was more work to be done.
I need to go see my mother to introduce you all. And I should greet her after not seeing her for a long time.
He thought it would be good to get done what he had been nning to do while getting them trained as maids at the same time.
It was upsetting that he wasnt able to learn anything about Baron Fern, but it was alsoforting that he was able to talk with his father and get some information.
Allen led them to the front terrace of the main building where his mother frequented.
* * *
* * *
She who had glossy purple hair, a youthful appearance unbefitting of her true age, and extraordinary dignity and grace was Eliza, thedy of the house and Allens mother.
Allen. I havent seen you at alltely.
She smiled brightly until Allen hade to her, changing her expression instantly and rolling her eyes in disappointment.
Haha Ille more often from now on.
How many times?
What?
Shouldnt you being here four, no, just at least three times a week?
Allen gave a troubled smile and nodded. It was clear to him that his mother and her stubborn personality wouldnt let him say no.
Yes. Ill certainlye to visit you four times a week.
At Allen''s reluctant reply, Eliza smiled again and sat opposite him.
Yes, as you should. You used to follow me around all the time when you were young. Do you know why Im so upset these days? You and Julius, youre both always working! Its so lonely.
His mother was speaking yfully, but it was clear that her words were sincere. That was just the kind of person she was.
So you two
His mother, who''d been talking about him for quite a while now, looked behind him. Linbelles head kept nodding, as if greatly fatigued, and Inellia stood there, quietly trying to wake her up.
Are you two the new maids Ive heard of?
Yes, maam.
When we suggested you to pick some yourself, you refused. But then you changed your mind all of a sudden.
I suppose. Isnt it strange to be at this age and not have a maid?
Sheughed softly and asked him if he really meant it.
I dont know I dont know what the other aristocrats would think. Maybe youd beughed at a little for being cheap?
Allen smiled bitterly at her, using teasingnguage on purpose. However, she was definitely right.
Why didnt he have a maid before the regression? Because he didnt have money? Yes. However, if he really wanted one, wouldnt the family have surely provided one for him? Whether it was a young girl from a small aristocratic family with no real estate or a thoroughly trained top-tier ve, it wouldve been possible to get it if he really wanted it.
However, he didnt want one in his previous life.
Because I didnt find any maids suitable to serve the duke.
The Reinhart family was in decline, but it was still arge estate ruling the duchery. How could he keep an average maid around?
That was what he had thought then
Do we really have to care about what others think?
But not anymore.
Hm? Allen, I didnt expect that from you. You mustve gone through a lot in Hibelle, huh?
Well, yes. Not so much as to change my values, though. But it gave me an opportunity to change my behavior.
Because Julius was more important to him than other peoples opinions.
It was an opportunity to recruit talented people who have potential to be one of the top eight on the continent in the future, as well as those who disyed exceptional strength, if even for a moment.
Did the opinions of others matter?
Thats great. I always wanted you to have a maid, but
His mother put her finger on her lips, as if shed seen something entertaining, and then poked her finger into Linbelles smooth cheek.
Ack!
She raised her head in surprise, saw Eliza, and stopped in her tracks. Thedy, still fiddling with Linbelles soft cheeks, began to speak.
Shes cute. She hasnt lost her baby fat yet.
Linbelle stayed still while being yed around with.
Theres a reason why you chose her. Shes pure. Haha.
Inellia watched Linbelle with anxious eyes since the first moment Eliza had been touching her. Allen, eventually unable to resist her desperate eyes, opened his mouth to speak.
Mother, why dont you stop. Arent you a little tired?
Shes my sons maid. She has to listen. Thats how it is. So
His mother, whod been fiddling with Linbelles cheeks for so long, finally returned to her seat and narrowed her eyes.
What is your real reason foring here?
I wanted to see you, of course
Are you here to ask that they get trained?
She turned to Linbelle and Inellia as if she knew everything.
No
No, I dont think youre going to be lying to your mother, Allen.
How many years had she raised him? Eliza ignored Allen''s awkward smile and looked away. And the atmosphere changed in an instant.
We are of different walks of life, and youre writing off the work of being a maid. They can''t even understand their masters intentions properly. You just thought you were Allens ything at first, didn''t you?"
Elizaughed cynically. She opened and squinted her eyes, carefully examining them.
Linbelle remained stiff, realizing her mistake, while Inellia had be uneased with a troubled look on her face.
Even while being put down, they dont show any resistance, and they dont hide their feelings. This is an advantage, but
Eliza slowly continued analyzing and evaluating them.
Her skin is so stic, you wouldnt believe she was amoner. Could she be of mixed race? She doesnt seem to be too unmannered either, but
Sheunched a few more questions at them beforeing to her final conclusion. Allen wasnt too upset by her actions, since he was used to having her as a mother. But it was inevitable for a certain question toe to mind.
Did such a thorough mother really not notice that Julius had changed?
Truthfully, the most unbelievable thing was that his mother had changed even more than his father, indulging in luxury far more than she had before.
And Julius had been helping his father with some of his administrative work, so shouldnt it have been apparent to him that hed changed so suddenly?
I suppose theyre both pretty alright. They arent bad kids.
After finishing her examination of the two, she smiled brightly again, and Linbelle and Inellia sighed with relief.
However, Ill have you both trained for a few days since you don''t quite seem to have the hang of it yet. After all, thats why you came, right?
Eliza smiled at him with a knowing look. Hearing this, Allen nodded.
Yes, youre right. But it is true that I was worried about you after hearing that youd been lonely.
Hm? Of course, I know.
As she nodded as if it were obvious, she continued, Be careful. You tend to strain your jaw when you''re telling the truth.
Allen smiled bitterly as the girls jaws dropped in surprise.
Well, thank you.
Of course! Dont forget toe visit four times a week!
Yes.
Allen turned away from Linbelles gaze and started back towards the house.
There was somewhere he needed to go.
While being trained, they needed to be ready to get that.
Chapter 23
Chapter 23
Note: There was a slight oversight in one of the terms used in the series. The novel in the series, The Feast of the Returned Demon King, has been changed to The Feast of the Reincarnated Demon King. This oversight was due to theter decision of going with the term Reincarnator instead of Returner while the initial mass release was still in the works. Sorry for any confusion this has caused thus far.
But guess what? Now you all know who the Reincarnator is. Congrattions.
The news of Baron Ferns escape turned the manor upside down. As a result, the guards received extra training and disciplinary action, and both the number of guards and frequency of patrol around the manor increased.
However, after a few daysas with all incidentsthe house regained its everyday atmosphere.
Nevertheless, both brothers sesseswhich could be considered to have been buried because of the incidentspread throughout thendter on, increasing public opinion. Juliuss reputation became a little less negative, and Allens name gradually grew more and more popr.
Allen, called by his father, headed to his study. He had neither Linbelle nor Inellia by his side. They had been following him as often as possible, with the rest of their time being dedicated to their training.
Ah! Brother!
While on his way to the office, someone approached him from the opposite end of the hallway. There was only one person in the entire house who called him brother. Allen greeted him with a wide smile.
Julius.
Brother.
Julius smiled and headed towards him, as if hed been searching for him. Hed been told a few days prior that Allen hadined to their father about the possibility of the gravity of Juliuss sesses being diminished by the Barons escape from their manor.
Ever since he heard the news, he had been looking at Allen a little more favorably.
Brother, I heard the news from Laina. That you went to see Father to protect me and my reputation
At first, hed thought he was just a third-rate extra or rival. And that still hadnt changed. But now, Allen was somewhat in favor of him.
No, it was my duty. Youre my one and only sibling, after all.
Allen smiled on the outside as he examined Julius.
Has anything changed?
Hes gotten better at handling mana.
His mana output had be more fluid.
And
Hes gotten stronger.
Before the trip to Hibelle, he was somewhat confident that he could beat him, but now, he wasnt sure if he could.
So what is it, then? How much has his swordsmanship improved?
Itd be okay if its only a little bit.
Allen walked forward, as if stepping into his own territory. Julius didnt respond.
Is this not enough?
He reached out to Julius, acting like he was going to pat him on the shoulder, no mana used. His intentions became clear.
So with the subtleties of life that he couldnt quite yet discern
Hey, Julius. Are you doing okay these days?
Julius flinched as his brother''s hand neared his shoulder. Unconsciously lowering his hand into his hip, he raised his shoulder up.
Ah
Allen withdrew his hand, pretending to feel guilty for his brothers reaction. Julius warily looked at him.
Allen carefully observed his behavior.
His feet already moved. Was his left hand reaching for a sword?
Before he knew it, Julius shifted his legs into a proper stance, drawing his sword.
Julius?
As Allen looked at him with a confused face, Julius quickly fixed his expression to an awkward smile.
No. Brother. Its been a long time since Ive fought my first battle. I suppose I was sensitive.
Well, that makes sense.
Allen moved a little too happily. Julius hurriedly examined him up and down and soon realized that he was unarmed. Allen wasnt using any mana, nor was he taking any special stance.
Allen began to walk ahead normally, and Julius rxed slightly and followed him, wondering if he may have been mistaken.
You seem as if youre busy preparing something these days, Julius.
Yes, Ive been nning to do something after resting for a little while.
A dungeon? Or a visit to a historical site? Or is there some kind of rebellion?
Its for a relic.
Allen asked him casually, Its not that easy to find ancient ruins, and even if you do find one, exploring is very difficult Do you have a n for this?
Of course not.
Julius forced himself to change his reply.
Well, that means that it may just be a bust.
Haha, it wont be. I found a ce where the ruins could be located in one of our familys ancient books.
Our familys ancient books?
Allen held back hisughter.
Where does it list that kind of information in the familys old books?
He had read all of the familys ancient books before his regression in order to study magic. Although there were books that metaphorically pointed to the ruins, there werent any clues to track its precise location.
Yes, so I think Ill try it out. Hm
Julius thought for a second before throwing the question at him.
By any chance, would you like toe with me? Ill properlypensate you if we have a sessful endeavor.
Julius seemed confident that their ruins exploration would be sessful. He had recruited Byron in Garvia, so he could use this opportunity to visit the ruins to build his skills and spread word of his achievements.
He thought that adding another person to the roster wouldnt hurt.
However
Im sorry, but I cant.
Allen had absolutely no intention of tagging along.
Is that so?
Julius asked him why with an embarrassed look.
Allen wished that he could follow his younger brother. He could get hold of some ancient relics and hopefully get some magic books about Souls, Spaces, and Contracts.
So what was holding him up?
Im going to be headed to a quiet ce in a few days because Im in the middle of an important point in my magic acquisition. So, unfortunately, Ill have to wait till next time.
That was all.
How could he surpass Julius by just tagging along with him?
He felt a lot during the battle in Hibelle. The future was variable, unpredictableindefinite. A lot could change by changing ones behavior.
Obviously, it was important to be friendly with him.
Ah
However, it was more important to build a foundation for himself to stand on.
Is that so?
He didnt expect to be rejected.
Why? Did he think that I would do anything he wanted me to? Like the house servants or soldiers? How funny.
Allen swallowed a sneer, his expression changing to one of regret.
If it werent right now, I would have gone
Oh, well It cant be helped.
Julius really seemed to believe that his rtionship with Allen wasnt particrly bad.
Was it because they were brothers? Or because he had been nice to him?
At his answer, Allen replied with sincerity, Im sorry. Ill make sure that we can go together next time.
Yes, well, we cant do anything about your training. Still, I wish we couldve gone together. Its a shame.
The bastard had taken over Juliuss body, but used it as if it were his own.
I feel the same way.
It was really
Well, you shoulde find me when youre done with your training. Ill give you a relic. Betterte than never, right?
Really disgusting.
Haha, that would be really nice.
So disgusting.
Allen still faced him with a bright, beautiful smile.
As he always did.
* * *
* * *
Julius, your fianc is here.
What?
Their father announced this in the study where Allen and Julius currently stood, side by side. Julius questioned his statement with a dazed look, but his fathers distinctively stiff expression didnt budge.
At that sight, Julius asked again.
My fianc Youre saying shes here to visit?
His father nodded.
Yes. I heard she would be arriving this morning, so she should be here shortly. And
Knock, knock.
Gaielle nced around as if thinking, but stopped at the knocking at the door.
Come in.
After he gave his permission, one of the familys butlers entered and quickly said, The House Noblie carriage has arrived.
Hearing this news, Gaielle rose and said, Julius, youe with me. Allen, you No, Ill let you know in a little bit. If you want to follow me, then go ahead.
Im fine. Its been a long time since shes been here. I wont interrupt.
He couldnt be sure how it would end. He remembered Juliuss fianc, whod broken up with him shortly after this. She was on good terms with him before bing a total jerk, though.
Too bad. Cant be helped.
Do as you please.
Uttering those words, Gaielle went out with Julius to meet up with the fianc. Allen watched them as they left before turning around.
* * *
Fianc
Maybe he shouldnt have listened to his fianc. He took out an old photobook that had been buried in his memory from before his regression.
Rachael Graniff. She was awfully good to herself.
When was that? Maybe half a year after hed started researching magic to save his brother.
He was in the study that day. Clenching his teeth, he studied magic books. Feeling desperate about his stagnant research. Feeling inferior to his younger brother and other humble talents. His research had yielded no results. Then, someone knocked on the door. When he shouted for them toe in, it was the servant who normally brought him his meal.
She came to visit him.
With her vanity-inducing ivory hair all in disarray, she asked him, Mister, what are you doing here?
Her eyebrows were contorted, frowning as if very upset.
Allen was out of his head at the time. All sorts of emotions fogged up his mind; he couldnt even understand himself.
Why are you here?
Normally, he wouldve epted her concern. What was wrong with him that day?
Why am I here? How long are you going to keep going with such useless research? So many people are worrying
I!
He flooded his emotions out onto her, unable to quell his anger. He couldnt quite remember what he had said. He just let it all out. He couldve just said that he was sorry.
She listened to him until he finished and turned around.
Since that day, they had be more open to each other. To be more urate, it was better to say that he was less emotionally isted.
He thought that he had taken his anger out on her for no reason, giving evidence that he was really obsessed with useless researchjust like shed said.
He didnt have the courage to see her again.
So, time passed. Not much time had gone by since shed left, but he slowly rotted away.
Lets talk and not be like this!
She visited him countless times.
Mister, I know you can hear me! Get out here right now!
Once a week.
Please Just talk to me a little
Once a month.
If you donte out now, I wont see you again. I really wont. Mister, are you really not going toe out?
After her visits had been reduced to once every few months, she spoke to him, sobbing for the first time.
Come out
The words that shed been sobbing had suddenly changed to begging. He couldnt say anything. He tried to go out every time she visited him, but before he knew it, that small room became his entire world.
He was stuck in that one little room, without the confidence to face her.
However, he had to say just one thing.
Im sorry.
Chapter 24
Chapter 24
<Suicide. Readers, please be advised.>>
Chapter 24
Ah
Rachael wept bitterly at Allens words.
About a yearter, she came back to visit. She talked about her daily life in a lively tone, as if it were something pleasant, and talked much more than usual before going back.
And when she left, she said one thing.
Im getting married next week. Ive been having fun, and Ive been doing well.
He wanted to say something like Dont go, let me hold you, or I give you my blessing, but he couldnt give her a reply.
Then, a few dayster, he heard the shocking news.
That she hadmitted suicide.
Only a few days aftering back to the manor to visit, she had hung herself.
And
(Mister,)
Allen received a letter.
The letter that began with Mister, was smeared with blurry ink, as if it had been rained on.
(Its a shame that I cant be there to see you as you receive this letter now.)
Her confident tone. He could hear her lively voice in his ears.
Youre lying.
(Well considering my personality, you may think this to be a lie. Unfortunately, if this letter has reached your hands, then I will not be alive. Shouldnt you have done better while I was still there?)
I I shouldve.
He should have done better when she was there.
Her words pierced straight through his heart. His sleeves were wet, as if someone had thrown water at him.
(I dont mean to me you, Mister. The curse No, sorry, I wont speak of that anymore.)
What do you mean, no?
(Truthfully, Ive spent a little time thinking about it. Howe you never opened the door for me even though I came so many times? Did I ask for too much? To ask for a cup of tea? To ask that youe out?)
Youre right, I was awful.
He regretted it.
She couldve forced her way through the door.
(Its not like I didnt think of breaking the door in Wouldnt that make it feel like I just lost?)
You were that kind of woman. A confident woman who kept her word.
He talked in that dark room as if someone else were there with him.
A smile formed on his face while thinking of more pleasant memories. His heart began to ache as he jokingly med himself.
He thought of her new fianc. His expression hardened without realizing it.
(Ah, you just got a little upset, didnt you?)
He flinched.
(Dont look around. You wont find me anywhere there anymore.
I know it; I really do. I know what expressions youll make, how youre going to act)
After those wordsafter her response that proved she knew him better than he did himselfher note said:
(So you should feel a little bit bad. Feel the way that I felt. If it hurts a little bit, then wont you be good to me the next time we meet?)
He couldnt hold back his emotions any longer.
(Honestly, I dont think that youll make it to heaven, Mister So Ill wait for you in hell for a little while. You can take your time.)
Fine.
(So you can get married, have kids, start a family I''m telling you this as your fianc: since you cant seed as the Duke, just go buy a plot ofnd and be independent.)
I Ill think about it.
(Ill be jealous of your new partner, but whatever. Im the girl who pulled you out of that little room, and Im sure youll acknowledge that.)
Of course. I promise.
(Theres more that I wanted to say, but Ill end it here. It would be pathetic of me to write everything here.)
Before he knew it, the letter was nearing its end.
(Have a story ready to tell me for the next time we meet. Make sure I dont get bored, okay? Well Ill see youter. I love you. Always.)
The arm holding the letter trembled.
(Your Fianc, Rachael Graniff.)
That day, he took his first break since beginning his research.
He buried his face in his desk.
* * *
After recalling the past, he passed through a small trail to the garden behind the manor. There stood a small tower of stones.
One built in memory of his younger brother.
The pile of stones was even constructed to resemble a tomb, though it really didnt matter to him, since he was the only one who knew what it was for.
Sitting quietly in the garden, he wondered to himself what he was doing. It was already over. There wouldnt be another chance. He couldnt even show his memorial to others. It was funny to them.
Youre being too sentimental.
He stood up. Heughed to himself and began to make his way home
Mister, what are you doing here?
Then, he heard a voice.
A domineering, irritating voice.
Rachael.
One of his few regrets. The woman he missed.
Turning around, he spotted her.
With her ivory hair and sky blue eyes, she frowned at him as if somewhat annoyed.
What are you doing hereAck!
Allen ran towards her after confirming who she was, and
Rachael.
Hey! That hurts! Whats the rush Are you crying?
He hugged her as tightly as he could.
It was improper, but it couldnt be helped. It was hisst one, his final one. And she had suddenly appeared before him.
How could he be expected to control his emotions?
No, theres something in my eye.
He needed to apologize, but he just couldnt get it out. It was rude of him to share his feelings for the woman he had known from before his regression. She was the same as the person he had remembered from before, but she was a different person now. And that made him sad.
If youre gonna be like that, Mister Well, its alright.
She patted him and smiled.
But it would probably look like real crying to others, so lets stop now. What would they say if they saw that?
Yeah.
Regardless, he stayed there, hugging her for a long time.
* * *
* * *
Yeah, lets do it. Lets call it off.
He saw her expression change with his words.
You You want to call off the engagement? Are you serious? Get a hold of yourself!
You said you wanted to, though?
Julius recalled his opponents familythe Noblie family.
He knew that their status and prospects were quite useful. And they had built a name for themselves in the Western kingdom. However
Theyre fine and all, but theyre not even extras in the novel.
Most families couldnt even bepared to the Noblie family.
But was there any reason to not break up their engagement?
Her face is nice enough
However, he did not intend to change his decision.
She wasnt talented enough.
When using [Iridescent Eye (S)], his eyes would instantly light up in a variety of colors, letting him judge his opponent.
Third from the bottom Blue.
A ster talent.
But not ster enough.
You Are you serious? You want to call off our engagement?
Her face reddened, and her body began to shake with shame. Her eyes were pried wide open in shock.
In response to her reaction, Julius replied with a nonchnt expression, Yeah, but you only came because you wanted to break up, yeah? Right?
YouWhat on earth are you saying?!
Julius snorted. Who did she think she was, trying to get close to such a talent like him.
Id be wasted on you.
He wasnt sure if he would be as talented as his older brother yet.
He remembered that inky ck color he had seen a few days ago. He thought something like this could happen, so he didnt want to ignore it only because it wasnt in the original book.
It was just a waste.
His one and only political strategythe marriage card. Even if he could have more concubines whenever he wished, he didnt want the position as his wife to be carelessly filled like this.
As if he couldn''t find any more reason to talk, Julius yawned and got up from his seat.
Ah, well. Im gonna go ahead and break off the engagement, so Im gonna leave.
Wh-What? How rude!
Regardless of her talent, he wouldn''t have acted as such if shed had an extremely important background or a more major role in the original storyeven if she were useless.
However
Do I really need to care?
He was to be married with a fianc who seemed to already hate herself and came from a family that was never even mentioned by name in the novel. Even worse, whose opponent made the first move to call off their engagement.
There was no reason to ept it, nor was there any need to cling on to it.
Whats your name again? Catalina? Catrie? Anyway, Im leaving now.
Julius waved his hand, uncaring for his opponents reaction, and left the room.
You You!
Cathleen looked dazed, as if her soul had left her body.
I need to find the Hidden Boss quickly
It seemed necessary to carry out an actual thorough investigation after touring the ruins. He had to build his strength and attract a team of talented characters to support him before meeting the novels original protagonist.
There should be someone near a supporting character in a bad situation right around now. Who was it? I think there should be one around here, too Southwest?
Behind him, Cathleen screamed, btedlying to her senses. A passing maid shrank down on herself, surprised by the sudden outburst from the living room.
However, Juliusthe cause of that sounddidnt give it much thought.
Ill get going now.
Chapter 25
Chapter 25
Allen and Rachael enjoyed the intense weather, their cheeks shining red. They moved to a nearby table situated in the garden.
Mister Hm, you seem a bit different. Youve never responded like this before
He nced at her as she fanned her hand at her face to cool herself, with her rosy cheeks and sky blue eyes. Her sharp nose, pink lips, and soft, kind eyes. She had the subtle scent of May bells about her.
Really? Could it be that youve just missed me? she answered with a wide smile and looked at him.
Mister.
Her flushed cheeks had cooled, and she looked at him with suspicion in her eyes as she opened her mouth decidedly.
Tell me honestly. Who is it?
What?
What is she talking about? Who is she talking about? She said it as though she were convinced of something already.
What kind of girl is she? I phrased it strangely. It just feels weird. This isnt like you, Mister.
As if shed just now understood, she nodded her head. As if something had gone terribly wrong.
Ah, thats right. You said that you have new maids now, right? Could it be?
No, at what point in this conversation could she havee to that conclusion?
If you tell me now, Ill kill herno, I wont Just tell me the truth. How far have you gone? Kissing? Oh, you cant do this to me. Did you? No, did you?!
Kiss.
Her eyes burst wide open. Her mouth was slightly opened, and she looked bewildered, so he stole her lips a few more times.
Soft, gentle kisses.
The sound of his cor in the wind sounded particrly loud.
No, theres no other woman. I swear on mana. Do you believe me now?
As he made his deration, a wave of heat spread throughout his body. She knew what those words meant to a sorcerer.
O-Oh No, I didnt doubt it anymore, but
She couldnt muster up a response, hiding her burning red cheeks. Her cerulean eyes darted here and there, avoiding her partners gaze.
Well then, thats that, isnt it? You came to me so suddenly, hugged me, and cried to me whispering sweet words just like in The 49 Symptoms of a Cheating Man
What on earth was she reading?
Allen hid a sour expression to put on a small smile.
It would make sense for her to act that way, though. From her point of view, she had to think that way because of him, the man who couldnt express his affection until only a few months ago.
She shouldnt be reading such strange books, but
Even so its good that you came out at all, Mister.
She smiled shyly, aiming her eyes down to the ground.
Allen cradled her hands in his, as if they would spill out otherwise.
And as their faces moved closer and closer together
Sister! Hic Sister Sister Waaaaah!
An uninvited guest arrived.
As theyd been reunited, spending their precious time together, they were met with another familiar face. If it were anyone else, they wouldve been kicked out for their rudeness, but there was an exception.
How How could this happen to me? Hic
It was his brothers fianc, Cathleen Noblie, forced to tears by none other than his brother himself. Ruining their time alone together.
He wants to call off the engagement, hic How could this happen? Oh, what do I do?
Rachael also seemed to resent her sister for interrupting their moment, but she calmed down while listening to her.
Julius called off the engagement? Rachael said in an unbelieving tone, continuing to listen to her story.
Yes, Sister, hic He was being a total jerk and, hic, I just said to, hic, get a hold of himself, and hehicyelled at me and, hic, he was so mad
As she continued to cry, her hair and makeup that shed worked on since dawn became more and more messed up.
Even before we left, hic, he already, hic, decided it all on his own, hic
From her dress and shoes to the essories that adorned her, her attire certainly wasnt chosen in only a day or two. Allen couldn''t even begin to guess what kind of effort went into the process of cultivating her charm as much as possible.
And, and, hic, he even called me Catalina Sniff.
She cried in Rachaels arms until she fell asleep, as if shed fainted. Having heard Cathleens whole story, Rachael sadly stroked her cheeks.
Her story was simple. She had told Julius to get a hold of himself which suddenly made him transform into his notorious scoundrel-self. She had heard the rumors that he turned into a scoundrel, but she wasn''t sure, so she tested the waters.
And the result was the separation.
Even though theyd been on good terms since childhood, and that was the first time shed ever tried to check on her fiancs temper
Separation
She already knew how it would end, but she couldnt help but have mixed feelings on the inside.
A sudden call-off. Mister, do you know what this could be about?
Rachael also looked flustered. How long had it been since Cathleen was so excited to see her fianc again? And now, she was crying, saying he called it off?
She seemed to be having a hard time understanding the course of events.
No Not at all.
Allen was sorry for her, but he couldnt tell her everything just yet. Coming to a conclusion without any evidence or proper preparation would only result in some useless assumptions like before.
There must be some way to find a reason behind it. Julius is no ordinary person.
Not as to say that he was particrly different from other people, but literally to mean that he was not an ordinary person. He was just really weird.
Its almost as if the world is in his favor
If Allenwho has watched him closely this whole timethought like that, then what would people from afar who only heard rumors eventually think? Standard tactics wouldnt be enough to take him down. So he had no intention of attracting the attention of others around him until he caught wind of at least a small hint.
But I cant not use what I have avable to me.
His eyes met with Cathleens for a moment. A woman left broken-hearted by the one she loved. She was close, in love with Julius, and sufficiently motivated. She may be filled to the brim with sadness at the moment, but
If he could hone her skills
She could be a true dagger.
Really, I shouldnt say this to you, Mister, but Julius has Is it too much to say that hes really be a scoundrel? He was cute when he was young, but now Phew.
Rachaelughed as if it were ridiculous to even be thinking about it.
I almost want to apologize in his ce, Allen replied with a bitter smile. Rachael shook her head as if he didnt do that.
Cathleen put a lot of work into her preparations to meet that baJulius. Mister, do you know why I came here all of a sudden?
I
Come to think of it, he didnt even know the basics about her.
have no idea.
She was supposed to be at the Academy right now anyway. That was why he didnt think of looking for her sooner.
I came by Cathleens request.
She asked you toe?
She nodded.
There are two ways to matricte into my school, the Galshdin Academy. First, you can go in directly and take the entrance exam. Most of the normal students use this method, but those students arent the ones with power.
Because Allen never matricted into the Academy even before his regression, he could do nothing but listen and nod.
If you get a rmendation from one of the eight top-ranked students and the permission of a faculty member, you can enter without taking the entrance exam.
Looking at Cathleen, she also added that, of course, if you had no talent at all, you wouldntst even a semester.
Most of those who use this method are powerful enough tost, though, so the headmaster allows it. But the Noblie family
The Noblie family isnt exactly influential enough.
If the scope was limited to only the western kingdom, the Noblie family would be considered to be very powerful. However, when considering the entire continent, their name didnt quite stand out.
Yes. Thats why she used her personal and familial connections as much as she could. I was able to attend by connecting with a top-ranked student from the western kingdom and bribing one of the professors.
Allen slowly came to understand the context of the story.
In order to enroll Julius?
Right!
Her eyes zed. She seemed to be genuinely enraged by Juliuss actions.
Even though she put so much work into getting him in! She tried so hard, saying that, if he came to his senses, hed return to his old self. And that if she seeded, it would benefit our family! That bastard!
Hold on, hold on. Why dont you calm down, Rachael.
Allen held her hand, interlocking their fingers.
Haaah I just got so angry. Its just that she worked so hard and prepared so much for their meeting today. All to get dumped
She sighed dejectedly and squeezed his fingers.
I only came with her so I could see you again, Mister. The other students are staying in the Noblie territory.
The Galshdin Academy
Now that he still hadnt found a way to rescue his little brother, maybe going there would be a good option for him.There were supposed to be lots of forbidden books and forgotten knowledge stored there.
So, what are you going to do now?
Im not sure Maybe, after doing all this, we cant stop now
With a subtle nce, she asked him, Would you like to try?
Me?
He was interested, but not right now. He needed to finish his business in his own familys territories, and the timing wasnt quite right just yet.
I would like to, but I dont think now is the right time.
Well it cant be helped. Then shouldnt Cathleen matricte instead? It seems like the best option to benefit at least a little bit from all the work weve put in.
She pouted her lips, thought of something, and then smiled again.
So then you want to go, right?
Her eyes lit up and sparkled like the stars.
Thats right.
Then thats that. Couples at the academy are really annoying to watch anyway This is good. I want to make fun of other people with you as soon as possible, too, so hurry up ande soon.
She said this as if Allen had already decided to attend the Academy as well.
No, I
Understood?
No
She was smiling, but with persuasion in her eyes, she pressed him to answer quickly.
Okay.
Allen had no choice but to nod meekly.
Well then, Ill get up first. I want to stay with you a bit longer, Mister, but I feel I should stay with Cathleen instead since she isnt doing so well.
Cathleen was sweating and groaning, as if having a terrible nightmare. Rachael stood up, gazing at their sped hands.
Ah I dont want to say goodbye like this
She nced back at Cathleen and gave a slight bow. Allen could smell her slight scent of May bells and her sweet breath.
Oh, this is so embarrassing. Youve be really weird, Mister.
She wiggled her fingers around, pretending to be calm, and took a look at him.
Its not too weird, right?
I guess?
Theyughed. He couldnt wait until the next time he could see her again.
As his eyes turned to Cathleen, Rachael shouted to him, Dont wait until the next time! But right now were outside, and Cathleen is here, and theres no time
Her voice died down until it became only a whisper.
If you want to see me againe to the Academy. I I want you to go too.
Allens lips spread into a smile.
Ill be there.
And with that, their reunion came to an end.
As if she were ashamed of her request, she quickly took Cathleen out of the garden.
Allen quietly looked at the tower of stones and stood up. The day of the first incident wouldnt be far off now.
The Academy I need to think about it seriously.
As he walked all the way back to the manor, he couldnt shake the smile from his lips.
Chapter 26
Chapter 26
Rachael and Cathleen had no reason to stay any longer, so they left for home after only one night. Allen had asked Rachael to give him some time to speak with her sister before they left.
Why did you ask for me?
About my brother Im truly sorry.
Her eyes looked empty. She had done so much for Juliuss sake, yet the result was her getting dumped. It was logical that the shock of it allsted more than just one day.
Rumors may go around if we, a grown man and woman, stay alone with each other any longer, sir.
It seemed that she still felt bad about it.
Allen smiled a little when hed decided that he could sway her a little.
Miss Cathleen
If you dont have anything else to say, then
When she looked as if she were about to get up and leave, he threw away his pretense.
The breakup.
She froze.
Dont you want to go back?
As if insulted by his words, she trembled and looked at him with venom in her eyes.
You need to take responsibility for what you just said. For insulting me
How would you feel
Allen interrupted her. Her face was stained with anger, but he didnt care.
...If I told you that my brother may not be real?
What? What are you talking about?
Cathleen quickly turned her head around.
If I said that a demon had possessed his body
He saw her eyes. Astonishment, doubt, anxiety, and a ssh of hope swirled around. Those perplexed eyes, reminiscent of a flower bud yet to bloom
...Would you believe me?
Not knowing what exactly would bloom.
Please, sit. I believe we have quite a bit to discuss.
Her eyes darted back and forth. She looked at the door for a moment before clenching her teeth and sitting down.
Tell me, sir. What are you talking about?
Allen looked at her and smiled.
* * *
It wasnt until an hour had passed that she left the drawing room. Rachael didnt question the length of their conversation
Mister, tell me the truth.
Or so it seemed.
She whispered to him while ring holes into him.
She seemed convinced that something had happened when her sisterwho had entered the drawing room still distraughthade out with a happy expression.
I just told her some nonsense.
Fortunately, Allen was relieved to have been questioned in a different way than hed expected.
Shes already having a hard time, so you cant get her hopes up, okay? Like telling her that she can get back together with that bastard Julius.
Its nothing like that. Just that I was sorry about his behavior and grateful for her efforts, and I asked if there was any way I could help make it up to her.
Thats good, but
She looked troubled, as if she felt something. Allen changed the subject to avoid her detection.
Rachael, you take such good care of her. Did you say that shell go to the Academy?
Luckily for him, the conversation switched without question.
I was just thinking about that too. Honestly, I dont know how well shed be able to adapt, but Ill do my best to try to help her.
Im sorry, too, but Im afraid I wont be able to go with you all.
She blinked with innocent eyes andughed.
Its okay. You said youde at some point, right?
...Yeah.
Allen replied with a bitter smile and backed away. Rachael couldnt talk for long, since Cathleen was waiting in their carriage. She gave him a hug before turning around and waving.
Well, then. Ill see you next time!
She made her way into the carriage. Greeting Cathleen with her eyes, she promised:
The next time we meet, shell be ready.
Whether for herself, or for her.
* * *
After seeing Rachael off, Allen immediately left for the city. Linbelle and Inellia were to be trained by Laurahis mothers handmaidwhile he was out.
If Mother gets bored, she can also help with their training.
Moreover, the knights would be busy with no time to rest while he was away since he entrusted Linbelles special training to them.
Allen smiled and waved his hand as Linbelles expression came to him.
Pang!
The head of a gnoll with its teeth sticking out was crushed.
Hed taken down dozens of gnolls before theyd evene into arms length, and those who came into his arms reach were swifty decapitated.
Rank 1.
It was a result too small to be considered an achievement that hed aplished decades ago in his past life.
Allen was of a rank unworthy of the strength that hed gained by making a deal with the devil before he died. It was as if he had a disparatelyrge ring for someone who was only Rank 1.
The reason behind which was simple.
It was because the power he received still wasnt enough.
Allens target was Julius before the regression. An opponent who was literally walking in the footsteps of a hero, quelling disasters all over.
For such a person, would it be right to walk a path leading to failure once again?
An opponent that he couldnt even face head-on?
The difference between them was vast.
It was a result obtained in a proper, yet unusual way.
Using elixirs and objects from ancient texts, his growth rate is embarrassingly fastpared to mine.
Of course, unlike in his previous life, he didnt know what would happen now. Unlike back then, Allen didnt suffer from the side effects of magic use. If he focused on using magic again, he might produce more results.
When was that?
Magic wasnt something that could be understood by only studying. In order to see if one could use magic, one would first need to learn about a certain type of magic. Additionally, it must be simr to the type of mana that one could already perceive.
For example, in order to use me-attributed magic, one must already have extensive knowledge of fire, and the sorcerers mana must already take a simr form.
This was because the forms of magic that an individual could perceive varied per person.
Allen had threads, Prindal had hot winds, Francisca had sticky darkness, and his brother
Particles.
Prindal, who perceived mana in the form of a light wind, was able to use magic in a wind system. Francisca perceived mana as a form of sticky darkness and was able to use that to create new systems of magic.
If Juliuss circle hadnt been destroyed
What kind of magic would he have used?
Unlike Allen who could only see mana materialized in threads, Julius had said that he could recognize every form of mana in the world, as if they were made up of smaller particles.
Something Allen wasnt able to understand fully.
He shook his head. It was toote to learn a new form of magic, anyway. So he had no choice but to do something else.
I need to keep up.
In order to make progress in finding a way to save his brother while staying by his side the whole time, Allen had to be physically prepared enough to join him on his journey.
He paused.
He spotted arge entrance.
* * *
* * *
The ancient ruins of a giant.
Allen didnt know much about it.
It was an ancient monument located between the Great Desert in the Dukes southwestern and eastern territories and the Michent Mountains in the northwest.
There werent many records of it, even from before the Golden Age of Civilization, before the ancient empire vanished into history during the Great Fall.
It was a time when dragons and giants ruled the earth, when the fantastical creaturesthat were now found only in the texts of ancient bookswere many.
The one thing that Allen knew was that it was here that Julius had found that sword. And after that bastard acquired that sword
He began to improve at an incredible pace.
Additionally, the remains of many dragons and giants were buried underground there. Allen thought of seeking out an ancient technique, deemed impossible by most, using those remains.
His reasoning for choosing the sword was also simple.
Up until he found the sword, Juliuss growth rate was significantly slower.
Allen remembered. The way that he grew so quickly No, the way he improved so rapidly that it seemed as if he had teleported through time.
Although his ability to manipte magic advanced quickly, his swordsmanship skills were average.
In fact, magic ability was passed down throughout the Reinhart family. Compared to other aristocratic families, the Reinhart family appeared to be at a lower level in terms of swordsmanship.
However, Julius obtained that sword and showed tremendous growth, as if spiting Allen.
If it were something to do with the sword, then it must have some ability topensate for physical weakness. Or maybe he needed toe to this site specifically to use some secret skill.
Allen could have a chance to weaken his opponent now, so why wouldnt he go in?
The entrance to the ruins was concealed in darkness.
How long has this been left undiscovered?
It didnt matter.
It would never be discovered again after this.
Allen stepped in without hesitation. The inside of the ruins were quiet and dark. There werent any wild animals in sight. The monsters that had been attacking him before entering the ruins had disappeared at some point. The walls were covered in murals that faded over time, and small bugs decorated the halls, flying away in surprise at his approach.
How far had he gone along thatmp-lit path?
Step, step, step
Is it here?
There was a giant cavity right ahead of him. It was filled with pitch-ck darkness, exuding a feeling of silent, lonely gloominess.
Introducing light into the space, he revealed the remains of numerous giants and dragons. The shadows brought about by themp light stretched and contorted, as if weing him.
A dragon with a cracked skull, a giant with two severed arms, a dragon leaning against the wall, and a giant kneeling on the ground. The numerous bodies intertwined with each other, creating an elegantposition. And in the center of those messy remainsid not a pir, but
Is that the sword?
The giant sword, reminiscent of a ssical pir, bloomed in the center of the chamber.
However, rather than approaching the sword, Allen sat near it on the ground.
I dont know how long it will take, but
A month would be enough.
The ring around his heart began to spin rapidly. Threads furiously sprang out into the space around him, hovering.
One of the questions that sorcerers often asked was Since when has the Circle Magic System existed?
Why did sorcerers have rings around their hearts? Was there any other way?
There were countless ways to store mana in the body and use it. Aristocrats coulde to acquire and use their own styles, and wealthier mercenaries could get ess to more secret techniques.
Even so, why was there a unified system for magic?
Many sorcerers with a ring around their heart had thought of such a question. The answer to which was, of course
There is one.
A different way.
What Allen was about to do came from one of many forgotten styles.
The Draconic Magic System.
A system of magic born from the curiosity of why a sorcerer could use a dragons magic if they turned the dragon heart into a jewel.
Turning their hearttheir magical core through which their energy flowedinto a solidified gem.
The necessary materials were few. Just jewelry or another medium with high magic conductivity. The more, the better.
This method was overwhelmingly simple. The starting point was simr to the Circle Magic Systemcreating a ring around the heart.
However, after that
You dont increase the number of rings.
This method wouldnt circte mana throughout the body. It would just steadily increase the size of that one ring. And if a sorcerer continued growing a ring like so
Crack.
Allens ring shook. He heard something crack in his ear.
The mana flowing out from the broken ring would circte around its caster, forming a sort of magic storm. Then, if the chosen medium was destroyed and collected by the resulting storm and absorbed into the body
Ill do it.
However, the oue for those choosing this route wasnt typically good. Obviously.
Artificially damaging the heart, that ever-important organ.
It wasnt easy to maintain arge ring, and the quality of the chosen medium was of the utmost importance as well.
If one wished to use a dragon core, they would need dragon bones and the bodies of other fantastical creatures as well as conductors for those materialslike orichalcum.
And even if the process were sessful, the body often couldnt withstand the work forced onto the heart. In many cases, the casters body would burst or perish from the tremendous pain apanying the process.
It was clearly an impossible task.
Regardless
Bang!
His ring shook again, a crack forming on it.
His ringhis life as a sorcererbegan to fracture.
He felt fear.
Not from the fact that failure here would mean death, but that he could miss the opportunity he was granted.
Yet, now that hede all this way
I already knew it.
Even though he had been preparing for this moment since his regression. Even though hed already realized that magic alone was not enough.
He wanted to quit.
At that very moment, he was still unsure.
Was it really necessary to use such a risky method? Hadnt the chimera sorcerer warned him already that he was pursuing the impossible?
The chimera sorcerer would have known more than him about all this. His words must have been more rational than his own, regardless of whether it were a lie or not.
What about looking for another way, then? Wouldn''t it be better to just continue using the Circle Magic System and go to the Academy to learn new things?
Then he could break through to Rank 5 or Rank 6, maybe even Rank 7.
Thoughts, addressed to him, arose.
Allen.
His voice.
I got my hands on this new grimoire
He heard his little brothers voice.
His ring shook.
Bang!
His one and only brother.
The brother whose circle was broken because of him.
The brother who had turned into a scoundrel, who he had sworn to save.
Wasnt he eager to save that very same brother?
Was it easier for him to just forget about it and return to thefortable path?
No.
Bang!
He couldnt do that.
How could he give up now after all that he had been through? Was that all he was determined to do? Could Allen really just avoid Julius as the younger brother waited for him?
No.
Bang!
Was he going to give up if he wasnt gifted a chance on a silver tter?
How long would he keep saying that he couldnt do it because it was impossible or scary or hard?
I know Im not good enough
Bang!
He wanted to save his brother, so he sacrificed countless citizens to reach that goal.
Now that hed gotten to try again, did he think that it was all just a thing of the past?
No. I felt it in the chimera workshop.
Bang!
There was a way to trail him. A way to follow after him existed, right here and now.
How could I
His ring
Bang!
...give up on him?
shook.
His body began to tremble from the tremendous pain as his eyes began to bleed.
Allen chuckled. He found his consciousness from the metallic smell arising from the blood of his bitten lips.
The cracks within his ring vanished, yet they shook as if shattered. Mana began to build up within the remaining space.
He made up his mind.
He ignored the fear.
Hed had plenty of time toe here before going to Hibelle, yet he did not go.
No, it was right to have ignored it at the time. Before dealing with the chimera sorcerer and seeing all the ughtered citizens, had he been faithful to them? Was he noble?
No.
He became keenly aware of it. He had to face his own contradictions. He had abandoned those people in order to utilize his flimsy knowledge of the past.
How was he any different from that bastard?
Then what should he do to make up for it? Lock himself up in that room again? Just like back then?
Then, an answer came to him.
No. Now
Shatter.
I wont run.
Crash!
A massive roar echoed inside his head, and his ring shattered.
Chapter 27
Chapter 27
The dragon core, the fantastical creatures echo location, the fairies gregariousness. Each system of magic was formed with a particr purpose in mind.
Obviously, since humans werent born with the innate ability to use magic, they needed to imitate other species.
The Draconic Magic System. Its purpose was simple: to imitate the magical core of a dragon, carry the radiant dragon heart that had been turned into a jewel, and use the immense magical power possessed by a dragon.
At a time when ones magic power and sensing range didnt increase every time their ring grew, it was no wonder that people tried to imitate dragons, the beings known as the Lords of Mana.
However, as it would turn out, the result was the exact same. The sorcerers heart would turn to stone and give up in the face of the apanying unrelenting pain. After finally seeding in learning the secret technique, their bodies would copse from the stress ced on their changed hearts.
If the amount of material prepared was incorrect, only half of their heart would change.
He wasnt sure how much time had passed. Maybe three, four days? His time perception had disappeared.
Allen opened his heavy eyelids, mind nk.
How long had passed?
He hadnt slept.
The storm that had been produced when his ring shattered was still raging on. It would end only after running its course.
Has even ten percent of my heart changed yet?
Heughed. He understood why he didnt know of anyone whod been trained in this technique.
They were all dead.
His heart felt like it was being bitten off, piece by piece. Little by little, slowly and steadily. His heart of flesh turned solid.
He couldnt eat, couldnt drinkhe couldnt even find sce in sleep. He had to simply sit in ce and hope the pain would end.
Allen looked at his surroundings with a twisted expression.
When did all of the dragon bones disappear?
After gathering his thoughts, he saw that the space around him was empty. His magic storm was out of reach.
What could he do?
Haaa How can I do this?
Stupid.
He pulled himself up. Every muscle in his body trembled as he fell over again and again.
Its alright. I wont give up. Ill get back up, again and again.
Using his swords sheath as a cane, he set himself back up. One step, and then another. Even crawling would be faster than this.
The magic stormformed through Allens every stepgradually moved forward with him until it collided into the remains of the abandoned ruins.
Bang!
The great impact marked the demise of those millennium-long abandoned remains. The now-copsed remainssuddenly broken down after enduring for so many yearswere absorbed into the mana storm.
His heart was gnawed away again as he began to walk once more.
Slowly.
* * *
Thank you so much for helping us!
Oh, its nothing.
Julius had just rescued the girl standing in front of him. Her short, purple hair came down onto her shoulders. She had pale-yellow eyes and a cute face.
Shed surely be a beauty in the future.
For now, she was just a cute kid. However
No! I was so worried about my mother, she seemed so sick
The Sun Sorceress.
Julius already knew. This cute little girl would make a name for herself someday in the future as a powerful sorceress.
The color of her magic, a vibrant shade of orange.
I knew that she lived in the western part of the kingdom, somewhere near the Michent Mountains right around now.
Since he hadnt found her in the region northwest of Garvia, he went to look around the southwest as well, just in case.
Her story, that he already knew in advance, was amon one in this world.
Her mother would die in the near future.
After that, as per usual, she would continue to live, unaware of her talent. She would find out that her mother''s death was the work of a dark sorcerer, and then
She decides to take her revenge.
In order to take revenge, she recklessly headed towards the magic-tower-governed free city of Perta. After all, there was nothing more powerful in the world than a sorcerer from a fairy tale for a young girl.
In a world full of bandits and monsters, she was lucky to make it to the city in one piece, and even luckier to be spotted by a passing sorcerer upon arrival. After that, she became a full-fledged sorceress of her own, traveling the world and ughtering dark sorcerers.
That was her backstory in the novel that Julius read.
He quietly opened his mouth to speak to Anya, whod looked at him with an emotional expression.
Well then, Anya. What are you going to do in the future?
Hmm Well, my mom is better now, so I want to learn magic. If I can be a sorceress then Ill be super rich. So then I can make sure my mom is healthy all the time.
She smiled brightly, thinking of a hopeful future.
Julius wore a strange expression at her desire to be a sorceress despite her future having changed. He said enticingly, Then, do you want toe with me?
What? Go with you? Her head tilted back and forth.
Julius felt the need to put together a strong team that could help him prepare for future disasters.
Itll be toote if I dont start preparing now.
That was how the novels ending was ruined.
If you swear to follow me now, Ill teach you how to use magic and protect your mother as well. How does that sound?
Her eyes widenedan easily understood reaction.
Thinking that he was already halfway towards persuading her, Julius added, Ill also give you a sry.
Ill do it! Let me do it, sir!
Julius smiled widely.
Well, then. Come with me for a second. I want to show you something.
When she looked up, she found a red dot on a round radar. A measure put in ce for the sake of the remains of the ancient empire lying near the town.
Those remains were simply called Lost Technology.
A ce filled with the remains of a civilization in full swing. Steampunk decor, a mechanized and automated civilization, advanced magic, international botanical gardens, etc. It was the ce where the civilization developed by many different races settled.
The reason why Julius brought her to the ruins was simple.
She has to see it all clearly from the very beginning.
What kind of adventure would they embark on? What kind of journey would await?
Still only a child, she wouldnt have rejected Juliuss offer, regardless of the answers to those questions.
Julius confidently headed towards the ruins.
Anya didnt have a single doubt about what hed said about saving her mother from the disease. As the nobleman ruling this area, hed have no reason to lie to amoner.
So she followed him with ease.
Whoa Shes so pretty!
Anya chattily followed Laina who was walking behind him.
It was a lovely day.
* * *
How long had passed?
His ears heard a hallucination while his eyes felt like they were about to fall out.
He felt a chill, as if themp had run out of oil.
His limbs began to twitch.
He raised his head.
There were no dragon bones left around him. What about the giants bones?
To the left.
He went right.
Before he even knew it, everything to the left of him had turned to dust and was absorbed into his storm.
His body, still supported by the sheath of his sword, felt even heavier.
Could he not move anymore?
Not yet.
He could keep going.
* * *
* * *
Whoa... Sir, this is
Anya was impressed by the space, covered and filled with countless steam engines and cogs, and left speechless by the magnificent appearance of the smooth iron ting and the steam spouting out of it.
Where could a girl like her, whod only ever lived in a tiny vige, get to see such wonderful things like this?
Julius ignored it all, instead, taking stock of the discrepancies.
The gap between the old technology and the new technology built to imitate it was huge, and the remainder of the ruins werergely secured so that the technology inside could not be taken out.
The reason for which was unknown.
However, that was how it was presented in the novel, so he just let it be. Despite that, there were countless attempts to imitate how it was in the original work.
All of which were failures.
Only particrly skilled dwarveswho were good with their handshad ever been sessful.
In any case, it was difficult to gain a lot of interest because the importance of a technique that didnt use magic was low for humans, who had a substitute for magic.
...Its not that practical, but
To him, that reasoning seemed to be nothing but another nail in the coffin to prevent the spread of technology.
Anya,e over here.
Ah, okay!
Anya, whod been exploring around the ruins, followed Juliuss call.
He handed her a transparent box. She gazed at the object inside, as if bewitched.
Its a tiny sun?
Hm yeah, you could say that. Its a little sun.
It was a fuel device, found in most steampunk-esque ruins. Since she would one day be known as the Sun Sorceress, he thought it could be helpful to acquire a relic rted to the sun.
Its for you.
What?! It looks so valuable, though
She spoke with a startled expression, but tightly held on to the little box, as if she didnt want to let it go.
What would he do with it otherwise? Throw it away?
He felt pathetic as he watched her young face, filled to the brim with conflict.
If you sign a five-year contract
Ill do it!
Julius smiled with satisfaction and nodded.
If I can increase the length of her contract little by little
He would be able to keep her around until the veryst disaster.
But the end of the disasters isnt the end.
Wouldnt it make sense for there to be some backstabbing after the end of the end?
One thing that bothered him was that, unlike in the novel, she wouldnt have any ill will.
But its still the same person, so shell surely produce the same oue.
She was just as talented as she was in the book, so she was sure to help quell the disasters and make a name for herself in the future.
Julius didnt think too deeply into it. He was sure that shed rather live a heros morous life than continue on the peasants path.
Now, should I start looking for that thing from the novel?
Julius quickly went around the ruins.
There wasnt much time left until he would receive the Ruins Detector as a quest reward, so he needed to hurry.
* * *
It seemed as though lots of time had passed.
The magic storm had weakened. Before he even knew it, about forty percent of his heart had changed into something elseno longer his own flesh and blood.
The weakened storm hadnt broken down all of the remains in his surroundings.
Ah
His voice had be husky from thirst. His tongue hadpletely dried up, unable to do so much as wetting a lip.
Allen narrowly opened his eyes.
He moved his body slowly. His rusty body couldnt move ording to its will. He stabbed his sword on the ground to support himself as he stood, but he soon stumbled and sank back onto the floor.
He got up again. He lifted his sword once more and was able to stand up fully this time.
He headed towards a nearby dragon corpse. Its remains were broken, but notpletely destroyed.
He hit it with the sword sheath.
ng!
He felt a tingling sensation in his hand. That was enough. Due to the years of weathering, the bones were crushed by a simple blow.
Its pretty slow.
Allen tied his hand to his sheath. It was hard for him to hold it due to how much his arms were shaking.
The unregted urine and feces produced a foul smell, and it was difficult to distinguish directions in the thick darkness. And with the magic storm along with the noises of all the swirling, crushing remains left him almost entirely disoriented.
Dragging his feet to the remains, he finally swung his sword sheath onto them.
Once.
ng!
Twice.
ng!
The remains crumbled in just two hits. However, his own body also copsed due to the strong resistance.
He looked away. As soon as he got up again, his legs gave way.
Where was he? Where was this ce?
For a very brief moment, he lost his mind.
With bloodshot eyes, he straightened his upper body.
It was only for a moment. A very brief moment.
But what if the magic storm had dispersed in that time?
What if thats how I died?
Julius.
His brother.
The one whom he owed reparation.
He followed him. He followed his image.
His younger brother, who had been following the heros path, who had forgiven him even if he tried to start a fight or escape from their family
No, was that really his brother?
He pped himself.
Blood flowed out from around his eyes, likely because he scratched his face with his nails. The blood sunk into the corners of his mouth, returning him to his senses.
How long has it been?
He felt as though his heart had been at least halfway changed. There were still enough dragon bones left and some more giant remains that he could use in a different way.
It was clear to him that the dragons core would explode.
So Allen held up his sword, and the sword moved on its own.
It was in a different way than what he had been trained in. It wasnt so systematic of a movement; it was a struggle from the cruel crutches of death.
The dragons remains had broken.
His body fell down again and again.
And again.
Just a little more
He got up once more.
A desperate wind blew from his magic storm.
His will became devotion, and that devotion soon turned into obsession.
He had to do it for his brother.
For his brother. He had to do it.
Whates first?
Stab.
The bleeding refreshed him.
He raised his sword again.
He was okay so far.
Without fail.
He had to be okay.
Chapter 28
Chapter 28
Ah
Julius let out a small exmation of joy at the tingling sensation in his body.
There were various ss bottles rolling around on the floor next to him.
He concentrated, and a tremendous disy of magic moved fluidly around his body while the shape of a lightning bolt was engraved onto his lower stomach.
The Dragons Engraving.
He only thought of acquiring it because of the Brain Dy hed received from the free draw.
Though, he couldnt use it fully yet.
But
This body was special.
No matter what potion it consumed, no matter what medicine it took; it could easily absorb difficult magical techniques such as engraving.
As if this werent impressive enough, Juliuswho was familiar with the main character of the novelwas even a little surprised by the vigorous movement of his body when absorbing such skills.
With a body like his, it wouldnt be unreasonable topare it to the original protagonists.
After quickly changing into the clothing that Laina had prepared for him, he left the secret room within the ruins.
Hed robbed countless ancient ruins in thest month. Currency from the ancient empire, gemstones, and gold bars. From works of art to sought-after relics. He didntmonlye across ancient relics, but the amount in his possession had be considerable after excavating so many sites.
Is this the end?
Julius looked around, back at the ruins that hed just exited.
He became emotional at the red sunset, indicating that night hade. He entered the ruins in the morning, but he didnt leave until evening hade.
It had taken a while to absorb the potions.
Its certainly not easy to think about.
All of the remaining ancient ruins in the county were ordered to be destroyed.
In the meantime, however, he was able to rob the remains of Hidden Peace and acquire Anya, who would be a valuable tool in the future.
Yet Julius was stillcking the strength that hed been searching for.
Ugh This one was too hard. Id rather face a Guardian or solve a puzzle or something Anya said with an annoyed expression, and Julius nodded in agreement.
We can owe this one to Laina.
Ancient ruins could be categorized into two kinds: hidden and unhidden. It was unknown whether or not it was intentional, but one could find more items in the hidden ruins than the unhidden.
However, there were many instances in which the ruins were protected by the Guardian of the ruins original inhabitants or were protected from those unknowing of the ways of ancient times with the use of puzzles.
Having experienced the ruins, Julius pondered. It seemed as though most of the ancient ruins intended to test their intruders rather than protect its contents. As if he were allowed to take anythingwhether it be knowledge or objectsso long as he had the qualifications.
This was a subject that the main character of the novel had also wondered about.
It wasnt revealed at the end, but
Perhaps the reason behind it was just to preserve ancient knowledge for as long as possible.
That would make sense.
Looking at Laina, who followed him silently, Julius asked, Laina, is there anything you want? Tell me if you need anything. Weve found a lot of stuff thanks to you.
Laina shook her head and replied, No, thank you. Im simply doing my duty, sir.
And that includes following me to the ancient ruins?
Yes.
As she expressed her refusal as if it were natural, Julius shook his head with a smirk.
Well
He didnt think so. No matter how dedicated a servant may be, it didn''t make sense for one to follow their master to an obviously dangerous ce.
Julius took a small bottle from his coat.
Inside was a glimmering blue potion.
[Sea Nymphs Tears (S)]
A potion that the main character obtained around halfway through the story. With it, mana could flow more smoothly within the consumers body.
To put it bluntly, it was like a small upgrade.
I was going to give it to my brother, but
Julius looked at Laina as seven colors shed in his eyes.
Yellow.
Maybe if she were Orange, he would have given it to her. However, Yellow wasnt going to be enough to keep up with him.
Unlike in the original novel, his brothers talent was judged to be ck, so hed be fine.
At that, Laina had believed his excuse that he had a head injury and devoted herself to silently caring for him since.
Ill have to give Allen something else.
There was no guarantee that Allen would stick around with him to the end. However, Laina would be very likely to do so.
So he gave her the potion.
Take it.
Sir, this is
She had a surprised look on her face.
Ill deal with Allens cut separately. This is your share.
But Im only a servant
No, this is your fair share. Do you think of me as a ssless noble?
At that, Laina hesitantly epted the potion.
Gulp, gulp, gulp.
Whoa So this is what a good master-servant rtionship does! Anya shouted with a big smile as she watched the scene curiously.
Lets go home now. I think weve gone through almost all of the ruins in the dukedom.
There would be a lot of work to do back at the manor, but it didnt matter. It wasnt his to deal with.
Father ispetent, so he can take care of it.
As the sun set, they happily headed down the road towards the manor.
* * *
* * *
The fact that talent varied per person was unfair.
When did he feel that he wascking in it?
Maybe it was when he was first introduced to magic.
Allen stared into space. His condition was horrible. His lower body was smelly and covered in dirt, and the rest of it was covered in wounds after having repeatedly copsed and risen again and again.
His fatigued muscles had torn.
Now, his ear drums were filled with auditory hallucinations, and his body was covered in stab wounds.
He swung his sword.
Without thought. Without will.
Allen was busy reminiscing far into the past, fully forgetting what he was doing.
He remembered clearly his awareness of his inadequacies.
Whoosh.
The sheath, which had be bumpy and dull, let out a scream.
ng!
It took me a week to even recognize mana for the first time.
His younger brother had then disyed his absurd talent in front of Allen, who had been childishly proud of his achievement.
He recognized it after only looking at it once.
His brother was a genius.
Throwing him into despair, hed turned his week-long efforts into nothing. He couldnt even try topare himself to him. He felt the unfairness of the world for the first time.
Its the same as when I got my first ring.
While Allen had been making progress little by little, his younger brother had seeded in making a ring around his heart less than three dayster.
He was jealous at first.
It was unfair. They had bothe out of the same mothers stomach. One was not discriminated against for being the younger, nor was the other discriminated against for being the older.
However, as the sessor, he did have more obligations.
But what was the result? Talent? Could something that couldn''t be seen make such a big difference? Enough to show such unfairness?
And what about me?
He wasnt a genius.
Even an idiot knew that.
No matter how much grown-ups tried to distract from it, there were things that even a child could understand.
Like the looks that they would direct at his brother but not him.
Admiration, expectation, pride, wonder, awe.
What did I get?
ttery and being treated as a child.
It was natural to be jealous.
He was only a child.
For children of that age, attention was everything important in the world as well as the impetus for any acts. And so, for him, his younger brother was a monster, stealing that attentionalmost an obstacle to be cleared.
He was jealous, and so he teased him. And then he was jealous again.
Juliuss responses to those actions were simple.
Are you joking around? Hehe.
He didnt resist. He didnt fight back. It was only a little joke.
Unlike his older brother, who was jealous of his talent, his younger brother was mature.
Embarrassed by Juliuss reactions, he stopped the teasing. And he sincerely apologized while bowing to him, saying, Im sorry. I didnt mean it.
Julius replied with a simple.
You were just joking around, weren''t you, Brother?
That day, Allen made up with him.
It was just like that.
Julius was that kind of person. He was too good for such an undeserving older brother. No matter how monstrous of a talent he may have held, he was still his younger brother. Although they would sometimes fight, they were still brothers who would go out to y together.
But then
Why?
His eyes began toe back into focus. The pain of the wounds of which he was not aware of began to pierce away at his body.
Why.
His arm, which had slumped in weakness, raised the sword. His eyes filled with venom. Biting his chapped lips, he clung onto his failing leg.
ng
Why?!
The feeling of the sword hilt against the broken skin on his palm stimted his nerves. His cold heart pounded violently. In that static space, he alone lit up brightly.
Like a candle.
ng!
His sword gained speed.
How dare you act as my brother?!
He was engulfed in his rage. Then, he came to his senses. His heart felt as though it were gnawed away. He swallowed a terrible pain that he had never felt before in his heart.
Whos to me for this? Who did this?
ng!
Who are you to take my brothers body?!
His wounded throat spewed blood.
Was there nobody else? From the elves in the northwest to the dwarves in the east. Prisoners of the north and Demi-humans in the northeast. Among humans, there are both aristocrats andmoners. Out of all of those people, why?!
ng!
Why my little brother?!
Was there no other choice?
Anyone else wouldve been fine. Even himself.
Really, anybody. So then why. Why?
Julius became a scoundrel because of him. He wouldve lived his whole life in atonement and done his best to fix his body.
But who is he? Who is he to do this? Who the fuck is Kim Woojin?!
His heart began to change. Mana spun around him, and his body trembled in the pain from his hearts transformation.
Regardless
Please
His words didnt stop. He couldnt stop.
He needed something to divert from the pain. The truth was, it grew increasingly difficult to keep holding on. His tired mind demanded surrender, and his previously strong will had faded over time.
He felt like a prisoner, enduring the torture with a sober mind.
He wished he were a hero. A standard hero who was looked up to by all and could do anything.
If he were a hero, he wouldnt have locked himself in his room in his despair, nor would he have signed a deal with the devil.
If he were that kind of person, he would have saved his little brother a long time ago.
He moved his arms and forced his leg to take a step. He struggled, but didnt stop, even if it meant crawling.
Allen himself couldnt understand what he was saying anymore.
His magic storm shook around him.
White with pain, his head struck the floor.
ng, ng
He had to withstand it.
Even even if I have no talent, I have to do it.
He wasn''t talented enough.
Talent, talent, talent. Hisck of talent held him back, both in his past life and now.
But who gives a fuck.
His heartakin to a heart that had fully changed into that of a dragon''s coreexuded an intimidating presence, and let out a massive burp.
The remaining dragon bones quickly crumbled into dust, and Allen stumbled a few times before standing up again.
...Next is the giants remains.
He turned his head. He knew that he wascking, but what could he do? Give up?
His conclusion was the same now as it was in the beginning.
He spent his previous life trying to make up for his ipetency, yet his ineptitude was apanied by plenty of human sacrifices.
Even though he regressed and a little had changed, the basis of his situation hadnt changed.
Booooooom!
His dragon-like heart let out a violent wave, as if it would explode.
Hack, cough.
His heart was beating. Although natural, Allens body stumbled around, as if about to explode from the massive amount of uncontroble magic within his body.
Something hot bubbled up inside his bejeweled heart.
How much more could he take?
How many more minutes?
That was enough.
Tap.
As Allen snapped his fingers, tens of thousands of stringsiparable to beforestretched out into the air and pulled the giants remains from throughout the space.
He pointed.
Hed nned a lot already.
The advantages and disadvantages of the Draconic System, and how hed ovee them.
What if his body broke down from weakness?
Ill be strong enough to handle it.
What was the probability of sess?
He didnt think about it.
That wasnt what he came here to think about.
The figure contorted quickly.
He didnt have to think too much. He imagined a furnace; its use and its transformation. With a wild roar, the remains gathered themselves towards him.
Then ,the strings connected.
Can I be a weapon?
Living things couldnt be tempered, but iron could. Tempered iron could be a sharp de or a durable shield. He had to do that himself.
As if it could only be made of something intangible, under a never-ending spell.
On and on.
The remainsbined into forms, circling around him. Allen found himself trapped in a sphere, reminiscent of a prisoner trapped behind iron bars.
The preparations had beenpleted.
A king needs a mighty sword.
A sword that can cut anything.
From within his heart, the first dragonfire bubbled up and screamed to be let out.
A dragons breath. A dragons me.
The name may vary, but the result was the same:
Burning everything.
Despite it hiding in his heart, he felt its unimaginable heat. The moment it sprung out of his heart, he knew what would be of his body.
Thinking about how he would change after his suffering, Allen finished up his prison sentence. As he shook his hand for thest time, the sphere began to shrink while moving towards him, scratching the floor and exerting a transcendental pressure.
A wild, yellow energy was drawn out from the ashes and swirled around him like steam.
At the same time, the dragons breath came out from his mouth, and he began to burn.
The dragonfire, rising from his neck, burned and regenerated his body which had been cracked and ckened like a tortoises shell as the yellow energy hovered around him.
A furnace made of the remains of giants and dragonfire from the dragon''s core.
His body began to temper.
This time
Allen wriggled,ughing as he felt his vision sh white from pain.
Hed had enough pain tost him a month.
The same went for pain inflicted by fire. It didnt matter how long itsted. He had already chosen. And since he couldn''t go back, he would just keep moving forward.
The same as before.
Ill have a good dream.
He hoped that once he awoke, he would have be a mighty sword.
In the empty space, where all of the bones and ashes had disappeared, the sword in the center of the room alone watched him quietly.
Chapter 29
Chapter 29
I saw families smiling happily.
Rather than a cold, stiff face, a father was wearing a natural smile. A mother was smiling with kind eyes. A younger brother with a bright smile, chattering away.
A real, not fake, younger brother Really? What the fuck are you going on about? My brother is my brother.
No, is he not really my brother? What the fu
Brother?
Yeah?
The scenery turned upside down.
What are you doing? Hurry up. You''re gonna get in trouble if you get caught.
When I turned my head, I saw my sullen younger brother.
Thats right, I was ying chess with my younger brother. We have to finish the game quickly.
If Mom found out, shed never let it go.
Mom thinks were studying right now. Hurry up, Brother.
Wait a second.
Why? Do you think youre going to lose? I told you I was gonna take your queen and your knight.
Bullshit. Me? Lose?
I tried to move his horse to show my dignity as the eldest, but
...
I felt my eyes moving around the board. All the pieces I had left were four pawns, one bishop, and one rook.
The king was just barely holding on.
But my brother?
Only one knight and three pawns had been taken down, all the rest still standing.
What am I going to do? Embrace the shame and flip the table? That would be better than losing to him, right?
Brother, hurry up, please.
Im goiHuh?
His voice was different.
It wasnt the voice of a child, but one much thicker.
A chubby boy with blue hair. He smiled brightly at me as I looked at him.
Brother? Are you giving up?
Y-Y-You!
I felt my hands shaking. When I looked down, I saw a mature body.
Brother? Where did you go? Why are you here?
My eyes turned cold, and I found a sword tightly gripped in my hand. I had never seen such an antique sword like it.
Brother?
The sword in my hand suddenly struck the face of the mysterious man.
His mouth didnt stop moving.
Brother? Brother? Brother? Brother? Brother? Brother? Brother?
It wasnt enough. More. It needs to hurt even more. Maybe even another
[Stop.]
Huh?
The world was spinning.
No, was I the one spinning? No, what does that even mean? Wheres my brother? And wheres that sword? I need to kill him now. I need to save my brother.
[You can stop now. Sheesh. Im sorry Imte.]
Someone was patting my head. It felt like warm sunshine enveloping my body. I felt relieved at the warm words.
No, not yet. I shouldnt feel relieved. I shouldnt feel rxed
[Youve gone through a lot. For today at least, sleep tight.]
My eyes were closing.
I need to suffer a little more I
* * *
Ah.
Allen came to his senses, realizing his pain had faded at some point.
He didnt feel the transcendental pressure that had been concentrated on his body, and the dragon''s me that had burned his entire body had been extinguished.
He felt his skin cool from the wind that came in through the cracks in the broken remains.
He opened his eyes. He felt refreshed, unlike usual.
What kind of dream was I having?
He couldnt remember. The dream had quickly faded into nothing.
He examined his body nervously.
...Did it seed?
He felt a strong energy rising in his body. His heart pounded as if it were going to explode then calmed down, releasing some strength. When he sent some of that strength to clench his fist, he felt an unimaginable force.
Crush, crackle.
Allen, recalling the chimera sorcerer who couldnt handle his body properly, moved cautiously.
Or more precisely, he tried to move.
If I use just a little bit of strength
Bam!
The foot hed moved to step onto the floor sounded as though it would break the ground. Allen broke into a cold sweat. It was beyond his imagination. Even his steps, taken with the utmost care, carried unimaginable power.
It was going to take a lot of work to move his body smoothly.
Still
He couldnt even imagine his body from before. Having gained this amount of strength would be more than enough in exchange for the crazy amount of pain hed just endured.
I never want to feel that pain again, but
It would be even more ridiculous if there were no cost to acquire such power.
He was overflowing with magic.
The magicthat had been concentrated only in the heart beforewas now circting around his body, and it seemed as though it could shield him from any cuts.
His muscles felt different. With just a little force, he swung his fist, smashing the giant bones surrounding him. In one light leap, he instantly flew across the space.
Crash!
He couldn''t control his speed and hit the wall, but Allenughed and rose out of the heap of rubble in which hed been buried. He was stunned at his growth.
What wouldve happened if it were his body from before?
His bones surely wouldve broken.
...Im satisfied.
Allen then conducted various experiments for the following two hours.
What was the limit for his magic output? How much strength did he have? And how destructive could that be? Compared to his previous body, how much magic could he use on a regr basis?
There were an infinite number of things to find out. And the more Allen destroyed the ruins, the wider his mouth gaped.
He moved his body as heughed loudlyvery umon for him.
Is this what life is like for superheroes? Its hard to even put into words.
Super vision, super speed, agility, super strength. All of it was like the power of a giant, the masters ruling over the era, like dragons had in ancient times.
And what about his heart?
Is my everyday output simr to my maximum power?
The quietly beating heart had a slightly higher output than Allens single ring at full force. In addition, the more threads ejected from his heart, the wider his detection range bes, flooding information into his head.
It was a shame that he didnt inherit the dragons ability to control every kind of magic like hed read in history books, but
The sorcerer who established the Draconic Magic System didnt see it topletion either.
Sorcerers were yet to seed in mastering the Draconic Magic System, so nobody knew of definitive ways to improve themselves. However, the shorings could improve themselves, so it didnt really matter.
Why?
Because he was sure that with his new rapid growth, that bastard would be second to him.
Can I not use dragonfire anymore?
He wasnt sure if the first burst of fire was thest one, but he couldnt feel boiling in his heart anymore.
He was disappointed that he couldnt use it as a weapon.
Feeling as though hed done enough experimenting, Allen lowered his head.
My clothes didnt hold out, he murmured with a bitter smile. All of his clothingincluding the sword hed taken with himhad burned away, leaving him naked without even a single thread.
He also saw that parts of the space had broken and were dug up.
However, not a single wound was found on his body.
He turned to look at the center of the space.
A giants sword the size of a castle tower.
While experimenting with his new body, hed turned the cavity into a mess. Yet the one part of the space without damage was its center.
He had avoided it just in case.
As he got closer, he became more and more aware of its overwhelming size.
...I have no idea how anyone couldve used this before.
Did Julius melt it down and remake it? That doesnt seem very likely. Maybe it was a sword that varied in size ording to its user. Such things exist, although umon.
Allen hugged the sword, not using any magic so he could measure the sheer strength of his body.
As the years passed, it could only feel the dullness of the day.
He used his legs. Squeezed it as if trying to break it. He set his back straight up as his muscles twitched and sublimated into force.
Since giants used to use it, Im sure it can withstand this much force.
However, it still could break.
Rumble
The sword shook.
Allens flushed face mixed with embarrassment.
Was this much force not enough?
He admitted to himself that hed underestimated the giants.
After all, how could the masters of that erathe ones who ruled over fairies and other legendary racesbe weaker than himself?
He took a moment to recognize that thought before giving it all his might.
Rumble
...
He was beginning to pull the sword out, little by little. However, Allen was carrying such a heavy load that he couldnt even speak.
Rumble
How much time has passed?
It wasn''t until Allen had been covered with sweat that he was able to draw the sword.
What a crazy weight.
THUD.
When he released the sword from the floor, it unleashed a loud roar and produced quite a load of debris onto the floor.
Someone once fought with this?
Phew
His muscles twitched like crazy.
Was this still too much? The records had said that it shouldve been enough, though. No, it didnt make sense that I couldnt lift a giants sword.
Wasnt this technique supposed to be perfect?
While he was busy worrying about his body, he heard a voice.
Oh, thank you for taking me from this stuffy ce! You have no idea how frustrating it was to not have been able to speak.
That same, bright, high-pitched voice.
What?
He got up right away. His expression hardened. In an instant, he sensed around the entire space, but he felt nobody.
Where are you looking? Here! Im over here! Right in front of you!
His eyes immediately turned towards the sword.
It mustve just been from when he pulled the sword out of the ground.
Allen calmly assessed the situation, hiding his embarrassment.
Was the Ego Sword the driving force behind his rapid growth?
Who are you?
Now youre looking in the right direction! My name is Ves. As you can see, Im a sword! Whats your name?
Did the sword just introduce itself? Shes not wrong, but
Allen wasnt dumb enough to believe that a sword would greet him with pure intentions here. However, he needed to identify it.
Wasnt it an Ego Sword?
He responded by wearing a surprised expression.
I am
Ah, thats right. This isnt the mostfortable for you, is it?
Before she cut him off, she let out a short, strange, loud battle cry.
Allen frowned at first but then widened his eyes at what happened next.
The sword shrank.
The giant sword reduced itself to be much smaller, into a sword much more suitable for him to use.
The sword rose and approached him.
Grab me!
Allen prepared to strain his muscles as he raised his arm in fear. However, contrary to his expectations, he didnt need to.
The sword was cool to the touch. He thought it would feel rough, but it stuck right to his hand.
Arent I pretty? Ehem.
Youre definitely a good sword
It was light, as if the weight hed felt earlier was a lie.
The sword boasted its weight in his hand, feeling like only a branch. The handle was filled with beautiful antique patterns, and the de was engraved with characters he couldn''t read.
Yes. Its easier to talk now, right?
...Definitely.
Her wordswhich had been ringing in his head until he held the swordwere now clear, as if they were being spoken right into his ear.
Isnt it so polite of me that Im wearing a mask? Come on, now! Talk to me! Whats your name?
...My name is Allen. Allen Reinhart.
Nice to meet you, Allen. Did you know I got in trouble because I wanted to talk to you?
To me?
Allen quickly figured out what it was that she mightve been curious about. Perhaps about how the times had changed, how much time had passed, and what life was like outside the ruins
Yes! Youre super crazy, arent you?
What?
He stopped his train of thought and asked again nkly.
Crazy? What?
As she wiggled her handle, she shouted, When you first started breaking all those dragon bones, I was bored, so I started rooting for you. Because those lizard bitches were out to get me too.
...
But, back to crazy, I think its been a month or so? That youve been really crazy?
Before shed even realized it, shed given up her manners and started shouting emphatically.
No, thats enough of that. Why did you break the giants bones? I was going to say something, yknow? But I held it in because Im nice!
From what shed said, it sounded as if she antagonized the dragons. She seemed to care about the giants bones, however, so he guessed that she really was once the weapon of giants.
The real giant was in that sword.
Allen chuckled at that groundless thought.
Is it even possible to put a living being inside a sword?
If it were possible, and that was what had happened, it would mean that she wouldve been locked up here alone for hundreds of thousands of years.
And if so, he could understand why her personality was the way it was.
However
...So, is that all you wanted to say?
He had no reason to sympathize. Technically, he had nothing to do with it. He had no intention of trusting her until he could be convinced that he could grow as fast as Julius had before the regression.
No? Theres more. Do you know how long its been? I was goin crazy. Ah, thats right. Whats that book?
Allen hesitated. He prayed that his expression hadnt changed. Because that question just now had drawn his interest.
...Book? What book are you talking about? As you can see, theres nothing here.
It was something hed discovered shortly after his regression. But his reaction now was slow because, until now, nobody but him had recognized the existence of the book. Hed never imagined that it would be mentioned by an Ego Sword that nobody even knew existed.
What book are you talking about?
You dont see it? Its right next to you, isnt it?
One is a book with a white cover, and two are older, faded books, right?
Yes! Those!
...You can really see them?
Yes, I can!
Allens expression was painfully stiff.
Werent these books something that only I could read? But other people could see it? Or is this sword an exception? What happened?
Allen was lost in thought. So much so that he was oblivious to the sword leaving his hand.
Ves, unhappy with his silence, came closer to the book in his hand, and spat out, What are you muttering to yourself about? Am I not allowed to read the book? I can read it.
No, itsWhat did you say?
Allen confirmed if what hed just heard was correct.
Can I read it just once? Hm What about just one of them? Floating books The world really has advanced a lot.
Whether it was a floating book or a floating sword, they were all the same to Allen.
She could read its contents? No, was there even a title on the book in the first ce?
As far as he could remember, there wasnt ever a title written on the book cover.
You can read it? Wait, can you really read it? Whats the title? Can you read the back too? Whatnguage is it? Are there any restrictions?
These books were the only proof of Allens regression. And this meant that there must be clues here about that regression.
Ask one thing at a time! Im not going anywhere, am I? Why are you in such a rush?
Allen couldnt believe her slowly spoken words, so he asked again, Can Can you say it again? Please?
No, it couldnt be, that was crazy.
His heart, previously beating peacefully, was pounding out of his chest. His head turned dizzy from hearing that unanticipated truth.
Ill still do it even if you dont rush me. You should be thankful to meet such a pretty, nice sword like me.
Thank you. Thank you very much. Alright?
Even though he knew she was suspicious, he couldnt help but ask questions.
After all, it was shocking.
Ill give you the white books name first. Its name is
Regressor.
Possessor.
Reincarnator.
That was the title of the book that had been with him since his regression.
Chapter 30
Chapter 30
Allen recalled the first time he read that worn-out ck book.
Reader Kim Woojin, 21. Possessed the extra character, Julius Reinhart, of the novel The Feast of the Reincarnated Demon King.
The contents of the book were shocking in many ways.
Obviously.
What does it mean by novel? What does its existence mean? And that bastard transmigrated into it?
Was the world really just a story like the book said? Or could it be a prophetic book telling the story of a future that might trulye? Where did that bastarde from, and who sent him here?
He came to learn many things that he hadnt known through that ck book, and he had even more questions.
However, he couldnt find the answers. After all, it was all that was written in the book. How could he be sure if it were true or not?
But one thing was clear.
He thinks of this world as a story.
His behavior was really easy to understand. He prioritized solving something called Quests and considered everyone he met to be side characters.
He also showed an interest in one thing in particr.
One of the main characters mentioned in the ck book.
Heisel Kailus.
The ck book mentioned him a lot.
Julius makes a n. After building up his strength as quickly as possible, he heads to the academy. Because in the original story, the main character
He needs to meet with him before he goes his own way. Before the story even begins. If he pays attention to their rtionship now
It is clear what he is thinking now. He wants to live a quiet life, unlike the one he has lived in the past where he was overthrown by the Demon King
The main character of the original story.
The Demon King.
Him.
That manreferred to by many nameswas closely tied to every reason why Julius moved.
The Reincarnator in the white books title mustve referred to him.
The book said that the devil was reborn as a human, and who would be more likely to have been reincarnated?
As Allen became able to read more things from the book over time, he learned more about the devil. And as a result, he became conflicted as to what to do with him.
He didnt know much about him.
In the end, all he remembered was fragmented information, so it was hard to judge.
I never thought that I wouldve regretted not having looked at Ves unless it was rted to Julius.
Julius seemed to have been nning to prevent future disasters after having reincarnated.
No, not exactly.
...Is that what it said at the end of the story? Is that what it said?
Like a person who thought of this world as some form of mere entertainment would, he seemed to want to change the future in whatever direction he so desired.
Allen wasnt sure what reason it would be for, but
Im sure hes trying to draw other reincarnators.
If that were to happen, there would be a high possibility that Heisel would be an obstacle for Julius.
Then what should I do?
He raised his head and saw the book wrapped in chains floating in the air.
Unlike the two books that he could freely open, this book was wrapped in thick chains and tied up, as if he didnt meet the qualifications to read it.
Maybe
Allen recalled the final moments of hisst life, when something had gone through his body.
...If I could untie that chain
If only he could read that book.
If he could use that book, wherein the actions of the reincarnated ones were recorded
He hesitated.
No, Im not ready yet.
He was thinking too far into it. He shook his head. There was no need to cling on so desperately to something he wasnt certain of yet.
It was urgent to get out of the ruins now.
* * *
Ves left the ruins, talking to Allen without any breaks.
Do giants have lifespans too?
Mythological beings like dragons and giants were said to have no fixed lifespan. It was possible for them to live for tens of thousands of yearsor morebut not many do.
Lifespan? Who ever lives to that point? Dont you all die from boredom?
Most died in battle, and those who had already lived for thousands of years tended to end their lives on their own.
[Youre asking how? A giant who loves the mountains turns itself into a mountain, and a giant who loves another certain race will incorporate its body into theirnd. Did you not know that?]
She wondered if Allen had nomon sense. Yet when he told her that giants were treated as ancient legends in the present day, the sword trembled in rage.
What? Ancient? Hah. Has that much time really passed? My lovely age
Unlike her lighthearted personality, she boasted about her quite expansive knowledge.
Was this information easily essible to anyone back then?
From their civilization and culture to the social system of the giants of that time; there was nothing she didnt know.
Do you know what an Official is? You likely think of giants as savages, but I was a super-super-duper-elite Official back in the day, you know?
She put on airs, talking about positions that hed never even heard of.
Dont believe me? You know that this current civilization that youre talking about is more barbaric, right? Hah, feudalism, when did we get rid of that?
Feudalism.
He understood the meaning vaguely, but wasnt sure exactly what it meant.
She answered most of his personal questions, but refused some, keeping her mouth tightly shut.
So, why were you there?
Why did the era of the giants and dragons end?
As if she hadnt heard the question, she didnt respond.
Allen asked a few more simr questions before giving up.
Im sorry. I cant talk about it.
No, everybody has secrets.
After all, he hadnt revealed everything to her either, but still asked for help.
Regressor, Possessor, Reincarnator.
Although it wouldve been worth asking about, she didnt ask him anything about it. She knew that too. Maybe she wasnt in the mood to ask yet, considering that their rtionship was quite ambiguous at this point.
They hadnt spent enough time together to form any trust yet. It was just a rtionship that hade about in the ancient ruins. Both Allen and she knew. However, there was one thing they were certain of: that she didnt necessarily need Allen, but
I need her.
Unaware that there was even a title on the book, he needed her because she might have even more information. So Allen didnt hide his motivations. Was it even necessary to hide his true purpose from the swordwho was not a humanin the first ce?
Now that youve been released from the ruins, is there somewhere youre going to go?
Hm No? Theres nowhere in particr. Why?
To be honest, I need you.
What?
Gazing at the light peeking out from the entrance ahead, Allen said calmly, I need your power. I need your ability to read the titles that even I, the owner of the books, cannot. I hope to gain lots of knowledge and learn swordsmanship from you.
Julius mustve learned how to handle swords from Ves.
What couldnt he do if he had?
She was quite knowledgeable in that regard. So the fact that he could learn so much lost knowledge from her was enough of a reason to keep her around. Furthermore, she was strong. There was no need to doubt her performance as a weapon.
Surprised by his forward remarks, she paused, leaving the sword floating gracefully in the air.
Ah Hm, yes. That was quite an embarrassing confession, but, well, alright.
Allen had been pondering what conditions he would have to meet. Yet, unlike what he had expected, she waved her de side to side in agreement as she immediately epted his request.
Its a grown-ups duty to help a young giant.
Letting out a sigh of relief at her eptance, Allen grabbed her, who had been flying right in front of him. He replied, Thank you. Well, then Do you have any other special abilities?
Special abilities? Is being a talking sword not enough? Do you have a conscience?
Allen looked at her, dumbfounded. Ves wiggled her handle to escape his hand.
Im too tired, so I cant do it now. I wanted to go to sleep so badly, but I was afraid youd leave me behind. But now that were out, I Yawn Let me close my eyes for just a second.
Alright, please take care of me.
Yes Im in your care as well
With those words, she settled quietly into his hands.
Allen turned around for a moment.
The entrance to the ruins was still there, weing its invaders with its ck jaws wide open.
Ive done everything Id hoped to do.
A thin arc spread across his lips at the fact that hed seeded at everything hed wished for at the ancient ruins.
Now, it was time to leave.
Juliusthat bastardwould be waiting at home.
* * *
* * *
Allen moved, hiding around the most deserted area he could find.
Because he was naked, left without even a single thread to cover himself.
He moved as quickly as he could, limiting the time he spent eating and sleeping. His new body was able to adjust to its senses after moving for a few days. It was still difficult to control his power finely, but it was safe to say that he wouldnt have to worry about destroying the ground with one step anymore.
He didnt forget about the things hed have to do while he was on the move.
First, Ill meet with Miss Francisca.
He needed to tell her exactly what hed given her.
Hed heard from Inellia afterward that the chimeras spirit, like Allen had guessed, was a devil. But Allen couldnt feel from the chimera what hed felt directly from the devil; that particr feeling of reluctance.
If that bastard inside Julius were the devil, then what about the one that Allen had met in his previous life?
Was it not the devil?
He needed to know what was different and why.
Next was Inellia. There was a contract between them formed through the chimera sorcerer. He didnt intend to force anything out of her, but he did need to have a conversation with her, at the very least.
The chimera sorcerers track record is quite questionable.
Itd be good if she could find a clue about the forces that had followed the chimera sorcerer.
Where did he get them in the first ce when he was only sticking around the mountains?
The stone sword. The ancient fairys body. And all that magic enhancing techniques.
The more he thought about it, the more ufortable he felt.
As Allen nned his return to the manor, he heard Vess voice. She came to consciousness a few times a day, saying it was difficult to maintain consciousness for too long.
Where are we? There are a lot of carriages here, huh? Didnt you say you lived in a secluded ce?
Are you up now? I wouldnt quite say its secluded, but the reason why there are so many carriages isAh.
Allen realized that it had been more than a month since hed left the manor.
Is it already time for that disaster to happen?
He remembered the events that Julius was around for in rtive detail.
He could hear the details without even needing to listen. His whereabouts after leaving their territory were only rumors, but it wasnt at all important at the moment.
He was able to get detailed information about it in the ck book.
The important thing now is
The disaster that would arise at the festival.
Thanks to that, his family was humiliated by the surrounding nobles.
Allen sped up. Hed spent more time training than hed thought.
He answered her question calmly, as if it were nothing.
...I suppose Thanksgiving is almost over.
Thanksgiving? Whats that? From just the name, it kinda sounds like an anniversary
She didnt know what Thanksgiving was. Did they have lots of food in ancient times? Allen exined the meaning of Thanksgiving in simple terms.
That it was a festival to share the joy of the first harvest of the year.
The biggest festival was held in Elle Round, a city directly owned by his family, which was why there were so many carriages gathered around.
As he exined, she murmured curiously, Thats so interesting! I cant believe theres a festival like that. As expected, things were better back in the day. For there to be a shortage of food
She said that the food was rotting today as a result of the elves disappearance, but, well, Allen couldnt quite believe it.
The amount of food that a giant would eat in a day would be pretty huge, but shes saying that there was still food left over after taking care of them?
Even now, the number of people who died of starvation had decreased thanks to elvish imports. However, the number of people was only decreasing; it had not yet disappeared.
Still, people died. It was natural.
But
Their food in storage was on the verge of rotting away.
Apart from the fact that there wouldve been a surplus of dangerous monsters everywhere, ancient times mustve been more of a paradise for the poor.
Not having been in need of food and having a highly civilized society, being worshiped by other races, possessing forcesparable to that of the dragons. There was no reason it shouldve disappeared into history.
Is this situation the same thing as in the ancient empire?
Why would the era of such a brilliant civilization end so suddenly twice?
Allen continued quickly making his way, recalling the questions that many historians had pondered.
Suddenly
Kill them!
Take them all!
He heard the sounds of iron banging and loud shouting.
Allens heart vibrated softly as he extended his sensing range into the direction of themotion. An overwhelminglyrge rangepared to before.
He closed his eyes and focused, drawing up a picture of the situation.
A few carriages, mercenaries guarding them, and thieves in numbers twice that of the mercenaries.
It was an everyday raid.
Usually, soldiers would patrol around the city to prevent idents. However, they were currently upied with a crowded festival. It was impossible to prevent all of the usual mishaps. But at times like this, it was obvious that more would fall through the cracks than normal.
I cant tell if this is good luck or bad luck
What else would this be good for if not a quick haul?
Unfortunately, there was no chance that the bandits surprise attack would be sessful.
This is a chance to test my strength.
He had no intention of leaving them be.
Allen wrapped a thread around his body. The exponential amount of mana he consumed came together to form a solid thread to cover his naked body.
Temporarily covered, he hit the ground immediately, sprinting.
His aim was simple.
They mustve heard rumors around the county for thest month.
Merchants were sensitive to trends, as well as rumors.
Also, he had his status as the eldest son of the duke as well as the justification of having just saved them from an attack.
Anybodyeven the most profit-driven merchantswould be likely to cooperate smoothly.
I tried to find a ce to get clothing, but, well
He hid as he went. How much further would he have to go in such a shameful way? He approached his destination.
Please act like an ordinary sword when in front of anyone else.
Well, hello! I am just an ordinary sword! Is that good?
Allen didnt answer, rushing back behind the battlefield.
He didnt use magic. It''d be too much for these little vermins.
A bandit that was standing towards the edge of the battle quickly turned his head to the sight of something approaching him at a high speed.
...Wh-What?
The bandit turned back immediately, standing with a sloppy stance. Believing in the capabilities of his slight magic proficiency, his confidence seemed to have inted.
However
Who the fuck are yHuh?
Stab.
In an instant, the decapitated bandits head rose into the air.
Allen admired the cleanliness of the swords work, having felt no resistance. With this, it didnt matter to him if she didnt have any other special abilities.
As he broke into the battlefield, the bandits shouted in quick session.
What are you?!
Its a new enemy!
You take care of him! Im busy over here!
No, fuck! Theres something wrong with this fucker!
You do it!
The bandits seemed to have a different style ofmand and hierarchy system. It seemed somewhat clumsy, but they seemed a little more threatening than typical bandits in that most of them could use a little bit of magic.
But theyre still bandits.
It seemed as if they had worked very hard to grow stronger to get good hauls, but they would have never imagined that they would meet an opponent like him.
Allen flung himself towards an approaching bandit.
Kill
Stab.
Ah, fuck
There was no blood on the sharp de. And when he swung his fist about, he felt only its mud-like touch.
Squelch.
The fleshy brain came out of its skull with lots of blood trailing behind.
Bunch of insects.
Allen directed his cold eyes at them.
Parasites that ate away at the countys citizens.
The ident that would ur at the festival would also have to do with bandits, so Allen had no mercy to show them.
His sensing range covered the entire battlefield, allowing him to identify each bandit. Now, hed be able to track every one of them, even if they ran away.
Allen stomped into the earth, expressionless.
B-Behind you. A monster is isi
Call the others again, dammit! Call them again!
And so, the ughter began.
Chapter 31
Chapter 31
As the second son of the citys ruling family, Julius left the manor to inspect the festival along with Laina.
The festival was no different from those hed remembered from modern times.
He heard childrenughing. People shared drinks while basking in the joy of the harvest. The sounds of merchants bargaining around the area filled the streets as items unavable in modern times could be seen in every direction.
Although it didnt have the splendor he had seen in modern times, the liveliness and fuss present here was by no means inferior to that of the modern age hed lived in.
He walked through the streets of the city, the festival in full swing.
Young Master, why dont we make our way home now? The wind is quite chilly.
Its gotten sote already.
The festival had gone without a hitch.
Maybe it was because there were more soldiers patrolling than normal. Even if there were some sort of drunken disturbance, it would rarely escte.
Alright, shall we?
Julius nodded, agreeing with Laina, as he looked at the streets filled with products from various civilizations.
As he was headed back to the manor, a tiny kid ran towards him.
Thud.
Julius lowered his head to see a child lying before him, maybe around ten years old.
He instinctively used his Iridescent Eye.
Indigo.
Which meant that he was useless.
Julius stretched out his hand, acting kind on the outside regardless of what his mind was thinking.
Are you alright? Be careful. If you go running around in the festival, then
Y-Y-You bad guy!
Julius winced. For a moment, he almost broke his smiling facade.
What did he say?
The child''s voice was somewhat loud, so he could feel the attention of the passersby surrounding him.
My dad! Because of you! He died because of you! the child screamed.
Is that the Second Young Lord? I thought hed changed, though
Ah He changed so quickly? He mustve been holding that in. Poor kid.
Isnt he faking it? Hes gotta be bluffin, yeah?
What did he say? That prick.
Julius was irritated by the murmuring surrounding him.
Whats going on this time?
He sighed to himself. He was used to this situation. It''d already happened a few times. No matter how much they said that hed changed, there were always those who didnt believe it. So Julius didn''t panic. Instead, he answered with the kind smile that hed practiced.
What did I do to be such a bad guy?
He would solve it this time, too, just like normal.
Can you tell me what happened? If what you say is true, Ill apologize to you directly. And I wont punish you if youre mistaken.
Looking down at the child with a slightly solemn expression, he could feel the gazes of those around him changing.
Look, look. See that? Any other noble woulda killed that kid.
Wasnt he supposed to be a total scoundrel? Hes not like the rumors at all
When Julius knelt on one knee to make eye contact with the child, the atmosphere around them took a turn.
The child looked embarrassed, as if he hadnt expected his opponent to act like that. So, he clenched his teeth and shouted even louder.
As if it was the only thing he couldve done.
My dad! He died! Because of you!
Alright, Ill check that out myself. We can get some soldiers to make sure
If the original owner of his body did something bad, it should bepensated for. And even if it were a lie, he could still show off some generosity by forgiving the child.
If you think about it, its not that bad.
As he continued that thought, several more peopledressed in shabbier clothinggathered around them.
My daughter also died because of you, sir Hic, so why Why?
You son of a bitch! My sons arm is a wreck because of you!
My mother died because of you! If it werent for you, oh!
Julius became confused with the sudden turn of events.
No, I dont
Where did all these peoplee from?
Looking back at Lainas face, she shook her head to indicate that she didnt know. He opened his mouth, suppressing his growing irritation.
If it truly is my fault, then I sincerely apologize
Sir!
However, before Julius could finish his thought, soldiers had arrived.
Do you have nomon sense?
He was upset, having been cut off several times at this point, but he couldnt let it show. There were more people than usual because of the festival.
At that point, the stigma of being a scoundrel had only barely started to fade.
In his mind, he thought of pressing charges. However, more people were there to watch than normal. Things weren''t right yet to act on his own ord.
Sir, are you alright?
The soldiers appeared to have rushed to the scene after being notified of the disturbance.
You punks! We wont forgive you for lying in the presence of the young lord!
ncing at Julius, the soldier raised his voice, threatening to drag the people away in an attempt to catch his eye and get a promotion.
Before Julius could even speak his mind, they intervened.
Stop for a moment!
Inconsistent uniforms and messy equipment.
Mercenaries boasting a threatening appearance.
No!
They shouted loudly, so as to not allow Julius to speak.
Trying to persecute the weak!
As if everyone wanted to hear.
Youre doin great, Sir Scoundrel!
As they shouted, the citizenswhod been threatened by the soldiershid behind the mercenaries.
We cannot just stay as spectators! From now on, we shall protect the people as the Lebeck Company!
The soldiers were slow to react to the mercenaries sudden intrusion, and the two groups collided, without even moving.
No, wait a minute. Who are you all...?
Right as Julius was about to shoutentirely displeased with the unruly situationhe felt a hand on his shoulder.
Sir.
Laina.
...Take a look around.
As she spoke, he could feel more people gathering around.
Fuck
It was toote to settle the matter quietly with the kid.
First of all, why dont we try to settle down this disturbance first?
...Sounds good.
Julius looked around using his Iridescent Eye before turning around.
Navy, navy, purple, navy, blue.
Trash. Not even a side character in sight.
He took another step and stopped.
You piece of!
You rascal!
Get him!
Voices of resentment towards him as well as the mercenaries triumphant shouting arose from behind.
This doesnt seem like a coincidence
His eyes turned cold as he headed back towards the manor.
* * *
* * *
Haha,e in, Sir Allen. Thank you very much for what youve done.
No, thank you. I was only able to learn all this information thanks to you.
The merchant group leader that Allen had saved bowed his head as far as he could. The mercenaries by his side were only watching without a sound.
As they normally would. Considering their positiontalking to the heir of the family that ruled thisndthe significance of their interaction wasnt to be taken lightly.
Well, sir, is there anything else you need? If you just tell me, I
No, Im fine.
Allen shook his head. Yet the merchant leader persistently continued, as if he couldnt bear to let such an opportunity pass.
Dont be like that, sir
I dont need anything else.
By chance, would you be interested in any jewels from Mount Linnev
The merchant hurriedly bit his lips and grabbed Allens shoulders as he walked ahead.
Stop.
Only when Allen swatted away his hand with a cold re did the merchant realize that hed crossed the line.
Despite their high ranking, merchant leaders didnt have the money to save themselves, so the merchant group had almost fallen victim to a swarm of thieves. However, after having been saved, he became blinded by the thought that if he did well in their conversation, he could form a business rtionship with a noble.
He immediately bowed his head.
M-My apologies, sir. I was excessively out of line. Please forgive me just this once.
Allen took a moment to respond. The merchants expression turned dark.
......
Once the merchants expression grew even worse, Allen finally replied, Mr. Karik.
Yes, please go ahead, sir.
Its only natural that a merchant tries his best to seize an opportunity. However, dont you think that youre being too greedy?
Allen had saved them from the bandits, and in return, theyd given him clothing and information. Their deal had already ended.
Y-Yes.
Regardless of what the merchant was thinking, his expression changed, as if he were burning from the inside out.
Seeing his again-changed expression, Allen waved a carrot in front of him.
But still, since youve helped me so
A red-covered book came to mind.
It wouldnt be a bad idea to make a deal with a merchant group at this point.
There was a man among the merchants he was looking for.
The group that saved the devils book before his regression.
He wasnt sure if theyd still have the book. However
Ill have to make sure.
The group was a small one, but it would be good enough to naturally make some connections with.
Allen answered calmly, Ill give you a letter of rmendation. With this, youll pass through the county inspection a little easier.
Pardon?
The merchant group leader raised his head in surprise, but Allen didnt care what hed say in response. As if he were showing his goodwill or forgiving his mistake.
I wont write my name down, but a letter of rmendation with the family seal will make it much easier to sell goods in thisnd in the future.
Typically, elves and dwarves would ept people carrying letters of rmendation without any restrictions. Humans, on the other hand, couldnt ept them unless they were directly endorsed by the ruling family of the territory.
In an instant, the merchant leader pulled his frown up from the abyss to smile brightly, and he bowed down so far as to touch his chest to the ground.
Thank you, sir!
However
When Allen continued, Karik bowed his head, as if to continue listening.
I want you to get acquainted with a certain merchant group.
Are they from the ce that you were talking about, sir?
Is that aint?
As a merchant does, Karik instantly calcted the gains and losses. If they had a letter of rmendation, itd be much more convenient to do business in the county in the future. And if the price of it was only to grant the young master a small favor
Itll be worth it for them. No, hell have to take it.
Karik came to the same conclusion, but slipped away, just in case.
Ah, no. How long do you think this may take?
Allen smiled and replied, as if nothing had happened.
If you can find them within a month, you will find that youll have little trouble in the county in the future.
Simply put, he would offer them his support. It was only a verbal promise, yet Karik believed him. And even if he hadnt, he could gain Allens fondness, which would be good for them.
Ill make sure of it that we meet again within a month.
Alright.
Allen turned around. He recalled the rumors that had been ryed to him from the merchant group on the way back to Elle Round.
Julius had a brawl with some mercenaries.
Thank you!
Allen replied with a small wave as he began to make his way towards the manor.
At such a distance where nobody else could hear her, Ves''s voice rang in his head.
Why did you do that just now? His hand at the end, you couldve avoided it, right?
Allen gave a small smile at her question in reply.
I can give as many letters of rmendation as I want. But if I did it right away, then how would he have reacted?
Hmm Well, it seemed he was acting out of good will, right?
She was right. He seemed pretty desperate to be good to him.
Yeah, I paid what was owed for giving me clothes and information. But how was that just now?
Youre soooo proud of yourself, huh, Ves answered in a jaded tone, shaking her handle around as if shed understood.
Youre pretty mean, arent you?
It wasnt difficult to do a little favor for someone else as a noble. However, it could have various effects depending on what the other person would do with it.
What if hed just given them a letter of rmendation? Theyd have had a moment of pure joy, and then the emotion would gradually fade over time. However, by waiting for the other party to make a mistake, he could then gain the upper hand.
The memory of his gift remained stronger and for much longer. In addition, he was able to get a few things done with just a single verbal promise, so it was an act that he could afford.
No, its just the basics for gaining the upper hand in a rtionship. Tolerance. When youre responsible for governing another person, you have to be able to deal with their every action and reaction.
Nobles were forced to live that way. The more rxed the nobility was, the higher the price they must pay for it.
Your life is hard.
Was that apliment?
Was it?
They continued their conversation while on the way back to the manor.
Until Allen stopped. He tapped Vess handle twice, and she stopped talking. It was a signal theyde up with together so that they could have conversations while talking to someone else.
Sir!
Sir Allen!
When he looked up, he saw Inellia and Linbelle running towards him. It seems that the news of his arrival had been delivered ahead of time.
Their posture didnt waver as they ran; perhaps a sign that theydpleted their training during his absence.
He wasnt sure how he felt inside.
He stepped forward.
Im d you both are doing well.
It was time to get busy again.
Chapter 32
Chapter 32
Thanksgiving. A festival to share the year-long awaited harvest and pray for abundance. People gathered in the county every year to enjoy said festival.
What if something scandalous were to arise during the festivities?
For example, someone breaking into the ruling familys manor while security was more sparse.
''An attack by a group of bandits who didnt even know the basics.
Allen remembered the incident that urred at that time. It was an unprecedented incident that, through Julius, drew the attention of the city and even made a bet with the aristocracy by mobilizing a mercenary corps.
Taking advantage of that, our treasure trove was taken from the manor, and the other noble families belittled us.
In the end, Julius chased the bandits down and killed them, recovering the stolen goods. However, the damage done to their familys honor was irreversible.
Father, this mustve been a set up!
Lost in thought, a familiar voice woke Allen.
I know. It would be even more ridiculous to say that it was just an ident.
As soon as Allen had returned to the manor, he was called into the office. There, Julius was already waiting.
As you already know
So what are you saying?
Gaielle didnt raise an eyebrow while listening to Julius. Calm as always, he maintained his unwavering demeanor.
We must punish those whove perpetrated this at once.
How.
We interrogate them
Gaielle sneered as he pushed his papers aside. Julius didnt have a wide enough worldview yet, which was a good thing for the duke. It made him easier to manipte.
No, we cant do that.
Why?
Well, then, what would you do? Kill them to shut them up?
...What?
Juliuss face changed to show a stunned expression. Allen watched the conversation quietly,ughing on the inside.
Thats
A lot of people saw it happen. Also, now the mercenaries have gotten involved.
I didnt do that
What did they say? That they were there to step up to protect the weak? Hah.
Juliuss face turned red, as if he were angry at his fathers words.
With a strange look on his face, the rumors that Allen had heard upon arriving in the city came to mind.
Was it really to protect those who that rascal had hurt?
Hes got some nerve.
No matter how hard they may be trying to make a profit, they were still beingmissioned by members of the aristocracy. They were deliberately arguing with a son of a nobleman in order to draw the city''s attention, after all. So it certainly wasnt normal.
After the festival ends, this news could spread throughout the entire kingdom depending on how much the citizens or mercenaries speak of it.
He was right. It was impossible to silence all of the floating poptions, including the many merchants and mercenaries who came to the county to enjoy the festivities.
But its toote to deal with all this in secret.
...Yes. Youre right. Julius shut his mouth, speechless, making Gaielle let out a smallugh in reply.
So you take care of it.
By myself?
Juliuss confusion showed on his face.
As if to encourage him, Gaielle said softly, I hear theres an artifact out there meant to settle disputes between mercenaries
Ah!
Julius nodded as if he had realized something.
With a content smile, Gaielle continued, Well, then, go on. Theres a lot of work for you to do.
Understood.
Click.
In the lonely room that Julius had just exited, Gaielle quietly turned towards Allen.
Allen, what do you think?
Well
Can you think of anyone involved?
Allen thought of two people who could have been behind it, but shook his head silently.
I cant.
Do you have any guesses about their motive?
Of course. The bandits will raid the manors treasure trove via the underground waterways. Maybe so they can forcefully take that thing in the trove.
Maybe but arent you trying to use Juliuss notoriety to undermine the family?
Gaielle stared right at Allens face and replied, ...Hm, yes. Thank you. Ive been so insensitive. You just got back.
Its alright.
Have you made any magical achievements?
Yes.
Well, then, congrattions.
Gaielle, nodding calmly, looked at the documents ahead of him again before giving a congrattory order.
Now, go. Ah, and dont forget to go to the treasure trove.
Alright, understood.
Just as he had done when he came in, Allen bowed politely before slowly leaving the office.
Well
He went to see the faces of the good-for-nothings trying to storm their manor. Heughed coldly at the thought of the men hiding out in the underground waterways.
Taking care of these bandits in the waterways will be a featparable to Juliuss contribution.
Moving without thinking, Allen remembered Julius and walked a little faster.
If his little brother starts moving, the bandits will attack.
* * *
Even after Allen had left, Gaielle didnt return to his seat, as if he were waiting for someone.
How long has it been?
Half an hour after Allen had left the room, someone knocked on the door.
Knock, knock.
Its Laina.
Come in.
She came in instantly, opening the door without making a sound. Gaielle asked her a question, as if hed been waiting for her.
Julius will be looking for you, so Ill ask quickly. Are you the one behind this?
No, sir.
Laina answered his question quickly, without any trace of embarrassment. She really had nothing to do with this. Even if there were something going on, however, she had to get her word in.
This was not something that we prepared. Even if it were, it would have never taken ce before your consent, sir.
Gaielle replied with a cold smile, You could do things in secret, though, couldnt you?
He knew that it wasnt possible, but he couldnt let it slide.
Thats
She wasn''t sure either. When she had just begun to assist Julius, she instructed him indirectly, never directlymanding him one way or another.
Wasnt that what you promised? Rather than setting the stage, fulfilling my requests.
Yes, but this
Laina bit her lip.
No, I dont want your excuses. This job is
Knock, knock.
Ive brought the things you sent for, sir.
She had arrived.
Gaielle wasnt embarrassed at the waiting persons arrival, yet immediately allowed their entry.
Click.
The servant knelt down as soon as the door of the office closed. Lowering her head, a much softer voicethan what he had heard earlier behind the doorcame out from her lips.
Stop bothering that child, Duke. As you wish, we will offer you more support.
Despite the bizarre appearance, Gaielle addressed her without any hesitation.
Well
We will double it this month. Hasnt your wealth increased anyway thanks to your new son?
Gaielle smiled contentedly at her reply, yet stiffened his expression at her final remark.
And one more thing
With that addition, Laina realized the meaning of her words, bowed her head, and left the office.
Click.
We are not to me for this. Its more likely that its because of that.
That?
The servant smiled and pointed her finger downwards as she stared at Gaielles stiff expression.
The work of your ancestors that you wish to conceal.
......
Gaielle remained silent, not responding to her actions. However, even with that responsewhether or not she was satisfied with itshe responded in a cheerful tone.
So, I want this to end here. Its not our fault.
...Right, he replied, a weight evident in his voice.
Then youll surely have a lot of work to do Ill get going now.
Thud.
Wh-Where am I?
You mustve been exhausted.
Gaielle, just like usual, gave the servant a short holiday and sighed with aplicated look.
The servant left the office with a puzzled look on her face, thinking about what to do with her new vacation.
Theres a lot of work to be done.
There was no time to rest. Gaielle grabbed the papers again. The amount of work he had left to do was beyond imagination.
The brightughter of the festival flowed through his widely spread curtains.
Yet inside the office, it was still dark.
* * *
* * *
A ce filled with a pervasive odor, piles of garbage, and mixtures of waste from the city. Such was the underground waterway through which the citys sewage washed away.
Dozens of men were gathered there in one corner.
So when are we going?
Hold on. Wait a second, punk.
Mismatched equipment and weapons marked with their individuality. Their bodies were full of scars, as if proving that they had gone through rough battles, and the magic flowing through their bodies was enough to receive special treatment anywhere, even if they were not at the level of a knight.
Carden said to Crogen, who was away from his men, Well, how many days have we been in this ce? Its been a long time since Ive smelled adys perfume.
Its almost done, so just wait a minute. If we get this done right, we can go right away to cross the Great Desert and then get into the empire.
Crogen was huge, standing at two meters tall with a muscr physique. Ordinary people would be shocked to see him. Or any living being, for that matter.
Carden spoke with patience, despite a sudden flood of fear.
Its not because of me. Its because of the guys below me. Its because I got a lot ofints.
Crogen turned his head to look at his men. Their faces were stered with boredom and irritation. They were reaching their limits
You dont have to ask me to be able to move, dammit.
Honestly, he was just as annoyed. Why did this have to be soplicated? If he could, hed just get it over with. But they couldnt because they were dealing with aristocrats.
If it werent for the injury, I never would have epted this job.
No matter how famous he was in the area, he didn''t want to carry out this crazy n of attacking not a thief or a small estate, but the duke.
No, but
Whir
Hold on.
At those words, Carden immediately shut his mouth. He was able to speak to Crogen directly because he was one of his earliest minions, but also because he was clever.
However, even holding the position of vice-boss, it was impossible for him tounch even a small rebellion against Crogen''smands.
All those whod crossed the line to unt their friendship died.
He didnt want for himself to die like that.
Not caring about what Carden was thinking, Crogen took out a vibrating ss bead the size of a babys fist. It shone a pale crimson glow.
[Its time.]
The voice belonged to a middle-aged man. The man uttered those words in an imperative tone, as if he were ustomed to giving orders.
Finally
[Tomorrow afternoon. When the citys attention is focused on the battle between the mercenaries, enter the location as instructed.]
Wait, what about the reward?
[...Once you arrive at the designated location with the goods, Ill give you your reward right away.]
Really?
[I dont lie. Would you like me to swear on mana?]
Crogen grinned. How could he know for sure that it wasnt a trap? Nobody would trust a bandit. So how could he?
But would a noble who thought of himself as such really make a deal with a petty thief?
There was no way.
Nevertheless, the reason behind epting hismission was simple: because it was hard to hold out. The bandit groupwho had been notorious a few years agohad fallen upon hard times. And so, they needed a massive haul to ovee their circumstances.
By the way, I think I can find the trove better if I know where and how Im using the items I have and how to use
[Dont worry about that. Just bring what you need to bring.]
Well, alright. As long as you take care of the reward, well be fine.
If we feel like were being used, then we should just pick up and go somewhere else.
What would they get after raiding the dukes estate? There would have to be some extra ie at least.
Well, I dont know, but my men are a little on the duller side. They dont know how to act when they see the shimmer and shine of a gold coin while looking for something else
[...Just take care of it. It doesnt matter what you use while youre there as long as you bring me what I sent for.]
The corners of his mouth began to rise. It was dangerous, but if they were sessful, oh, he couldnt even begin to imagine how great the reward would be.
As expected, you have a truly kind heart, sir. We will surely seed.
[Yes. Ill await news of your sess.]
With those words, the crystal ball returned to its typical transparent appearance.
Crogen rxed his stiffened body and shouted, You hear that? Get ready. Our life of shit-smellin gutter ends today!
The men who had been quietly listening to their conversation cheered after Crogens cry.
Carden felt a little bit of regret, thinking that he should have waited a little longer before talking with the noble. In the end, he hadnt tried to speak with him during their conversation.
Ah! Finally!
Fuck, man, its been a few days since Ive smelled something nice.
Im never going back in the sewer again. Seriously.
Crogens eyes glowed red, and the device built into his chest burned hot. Even if he was a little weakened by permanent injuries, it wasnt like he couldnt sneak in and pick up anything.
If we get this done, itll solve everything.
He was going to make a full recovery from his injuries and recruit new members.
Thinking of a sessful future, Crogen burst out intoughter. Whether he was just intoxicated by the thought of such sess or it was simply his nature as a bandit, Crogen had been too careless.
Really?
Yeah, if we get this done, itll
Crash!
Aaaaaaaack!
Its a surprise attack! Fuck! Were under attack!
His scream echoed.
A harsh roar echoed, and the sound was amplified furthermore throughout the blocked waterway.
At the same time, one voice rang out clearly.
Gotcha.
Those filthy bandits.
From the darkness of the shadows, a dark figure swooped in.
Chapter 34
Chapter 34
Julius! Julius! Julius!
Hooray!!!
All hail the Reinhart family!!
When Allen had finally left the sewers, the battle between Julius and the mercenary group hade to its conclusion. The news of the duel had already spread throughout the streets, and people were chanting Juliuss name.
It was a sight to beholdeveryone cheering with such excitement.
Ah, its so loud.
Incongruent with the wishes that Ves had expressed to see the festival, sheined quietly, disliking the noise.
...Do they know how loud theyre being?
Keeping in mind that it would be difficult to respond to her, Allen immediately handed over the captured bandits to a nearby soldier.
Take care of them so they dont die.
Yes, sir!
There are traces of them in the waterways, so you can take care of the rest.
But where would they be?
Ive marked the location on this map.
Ah! Understood, sir!
Allen handed the soldier a map he had drawn on as he exited the underground waterway. After giving a salute, the soldier dragged the bandits away, still groaning about their wounds.
They would receive bare-minimum treatment before being interrogated.
You said youd have some free time after this, right?
Hm Probably. Why?
Fufu, its nothing.
Fine.
Allen quickly headed for the manor.
Julius was going to show off his achievements, so he needed to boast his own too.
* * *
A few dayster, the whole story came to light.
The mercenary leader revealed the whole truth on a tform in the town square as a result of Juliuss threats. In front of the public with a face of apparent humiliation, he confessed that he had received a secret request.
Well, then. What about all those people who lost their family members to Young Master Julius?
That was also a lie.
He had brought in the victims who had appeared to shout malicious lies, but were actually normal people who had nothing to do with Julius.
Additionally, he confessed that while some of the city was left unguarded, a swarm of bandits would be allowed to attack the manor via the underground waterways, causing a tremendous sensation.
Is everything okay now?
Are we in danger?
The citizens were upset and confused, and just as anxiety spiked in the poption
Sir Allen has caught the bandits!
Allen had sensed the anxiety in the air in advance, and announced that he had subdued the band of bandits himself. The uproar subsided immediately, the people of the city relieved.
Wow. Sir Allen I knew he could do it.
Both young lords are superb. The duke must be proud.
Sir Allen took down the bandits so the festival wouldnt be ruined
Hearing this, the mercenary leaderwho had already been forced to confess the truthbecame dejected. At the knowledge that all of their ns had failed, he realized that he would have no more chances at escaping.
When he was finally asked who the culprit was, he unhesitatingly gave the name of the nobleman who made the request.
As soon as the mercenary leader uttered the truth in front of the public, Gaielle dispatched both the knights and soldiers.
The mastermind had been caught.
L-Let go! Do you know who I am?!
He had been demoted from nobility a few years ago.
He said that he had been promised an astronomical sum of money for stealing a special item from the trove.
Who made such a request of you?
Well, I couldnt see their face
As soon as he had been captured, Gaielle decided to execute him.
There was a good enough reason to do so. He caused a major disturbance during the festival and plotted to disgrace them. And rather than a nobleman who would be protected by royalw, he was nothing but a fallen noble.
Moreover, nobody could stop the duke in his own territory.
S-Sir, youre making a mistake. If you kill me, youll regret it
Clink.
Just like the rest of the mercenaries, the leader wouldnt be able to avoid his judgment.
P-Please spare me!
I didnt know anything! Please! Please!
B-Boss, I told you we shouldnt have done this one!
They poured out their pleas, despair, and resentment as they died.
Those who knew nothing said that justice had triumphed, praising the family and enjoying the festival. Those with thoughts expressed their doubts. The deep thinkers remained silent on the suspicion that there was a purpose behind raiding the duke''s treasure trove.
The harvest festival resumed, and through the results of the failed raid, the duke was able to show those around him that he was stillpetent.
The streets echoed with the cries of Allens and Juliuss names, and residents and travelers alike happily enjoyed the festival.
In the midst of it all, someone had been forgotten.
Squeeeaaak.
The unoiled hinges creaked as they opened.
The guard retrieved the key that opened the door, looked into the darkness, and said, Come on, you dumbasses. What if they dont fall for it? Tsk, tsk.
Oh, stop. Those stupid bastards wont figure it out.
When another guard told him to quit it, he muttered to himself for a while before shouting with an annoyed expression, Thats true, but Tsk. Whatever. Come out already!
Thud, thud.
Up until a few days ago, he thought he could get revenge for his family and make them pay. Yet what had actually happened? He had be nothing but a fool who had been tricked, criticized for having been stupid at best.
In the end, he hadnt done any harm to Julius.
You should be d that Sir Julius took care of you. Anyone else and they wouldve given you the death penalty, you know.
Stop, please. What do you know.
Tsk.
The sound of his tongue clicking made his body recoil.
Callon raised his head to look at the expression of the adults he was with.
Having shared the same pain, they could call themselvesrades; their expressions were dark.
Ackan said that wed be able to do it
They were the same adults who had told him that there was hope up until a few days ago, despite being locked in the cold darkness behind iron bars.
Their faces were painted with terror, as if they made a grave mistake.
Hurry up and walk!
Those who had been slowing down elerated. Callon followed them up the stairs.
Creeeaaak
The guard leading them turned the heavy doors lock.
Thunk.
After opening the very heavy door, fresh air and warm sunlight greeted them.
Nothing had happened.
Driven into the streets, they dispersed without need of disbanding. Callon felt that the vitality of the street did not suit him.
He was frustrated, but he couldn''t help it.
I have to go back to my brother.
His footsteps followed quietly behind him as he left the city.
* * *
* * *
Just as other families do, the Reinhart family raised butlers for lifelong servitude from generation to generation through a systematic education starting in early childhood and indoctrinated loyalty. A know-how built by the family for generations.
That was how their butlersin charge of various administrative tasks for the familywere raised.
However, there were instances in which outsiders would also be hired in.
One of such hires was Gardell, one of the houses butlers. He was an excellent butler who had never caused even a single problem in his decades of servitude to the family.
Now, rather than retiring for his old age, he had taken a step back from his butler position. Though, nobody ignored him. He was deeply respected, despiteing in from the outside.
Hinell, youre looking like youre in better shape. Youve cleaned up nicely too.
Bidun, hows your sick brother doing? You used the herb I gave you? Im d.
Tina, you look lovely today. Hows your rtionship with Cain going?
Gardell smiled kindly and greeted everyone he encountered while walking through the halls. His kind, benevolent character made him like a grandparent to the other servants. Not a single person in the manor spoke ill of him.
He slowly walked into the room with a warm smile on his face.
Thud.
As soon as the door closed, his expression was wiped off his face.
There was already someone waiting in the room.
Yourete.
Wine-colored hair trailed down to her waist apanied by a beautiful smile.
Even as she grew older, she remained a charming woman.
Gardell bent his knee at her reprimand.
Im sorry, Lady Eliza. I didnt expect Young Master Allen to improve so much.
...Allen? Hm, so he grew that much during his training?
She had been ring coldly from histe arrival, yet it loosened up after hearing the news about Allen.
Yes. Although only for a moment, he managed to sense my presence. If it were someone else in my ce, they wouldve been caught.
The news of Allens overwhelming growth had eased the tension for a moment. However, until that time, Gardell had never thought that he would get caught.
He couldnt believe that Allen had found himsomeone who was once one of the Dark Kings.
...Really?
Eliza looked amazed, then pouted her lips at her recollection of Allen only a month before.
He said hede to see me four times a week, but he didnt.
With all due respect, Lady Eliza
What?
I am a tad suspicious of his sudden growth. Perhaps he
No.
She immediately refuted Gardells thought.
Allen? Well I was a little suspicious at first, but
Eliza recalled the first time shed met Allen.
He isnt like Julius.
She had called Allen in to confirm it, checking everything. His habits, tone, speech patterns, values, and personality. It was a little different from what she knew, but it was still Allen.
However, things werent entirely clear, so she found out even more by keeping Linbelle and Inellia by her side under the pretext of training them.
The innocent women didnt even know that they were providing her with information about him.
It didnt matter even if they did.
Whats wrong with a mother wanting to know about her child?
Gardell remained silent in response to her deration.
If thats how she feels, then so be it. She must be aware of something that Im not.
So Allen is fine. And what about Julius?
Young Master Julius is I can say that Ive examined him thoroughly. Compared to a few months ago, hespletely different.
Subtle changes in gait, pitch, subconscious habits, and even his preferences. These may have all seemed to be only minor clues, but to assassins like Gardell, they were credible evidence.
That was why he was so sure.
He is a different person.
Hearing Gardells report, Eliza closed her eyes. Lots of emotions rattled around in her mind, but she didnt let it show. It still wasnt the right time yet.
Well have you found any of the people who tried to mess with Julius, no, that other person?
...My apologies. I sent everyone to pursue them, but found only one lesser nobleman who appeared to be giving orders.
And you?
I found some people who seemed to agree with their cause, but they didnt appear to be connected to them.
So youre saying that you couldnt find the perpetrator? Gardell, dont make me demote you.
With that, Gardell bowed even lower.
I was able to find a lead, fortunately. I started tracking it, but
But?
They were headed towards the Great Desert.
A smile formed on her lips.
Oh the Great Desert Then that means
They were with Galshdin Academy.
Eliza understood why he stopped trailing them. The Academy was a ce with lots of technology. It made sense, with the Academy being the ce where at least two of the Top Eight were permanently stationed. It would be a waste of a life to try to break in.
And
Hm?
She looked at him, and Gardell lowered his head.
The bandits capabilities far exceeded my expectations. If the attack were to have progressed any further
His identity could have been revealed.
Gardell stated his expectations without exaggeration.
Eliza could tell what he was talking about. So she understood his actions. It was his instinct. If he wasnt sure, he wouldnt have gone.
That was the essential nature of the Dark King Gardell. And that was their promise.
There was another curious fact.
You were strong enough to handle them all at once?
No. I couldnt kill dozens of people at once without appearing. I didnt reveal my identity. Because that was the promise I made with you, Lady Eliza.
Despite Gardells cold words, Eliza didnt even do so much as raise an eyebrow.
Such conditions enabled her to use him, a Dark King, as an invisible sword for decades, so what he said was correct.
Then theres nothing we can do. A lot of people have gone missing in the pursuit of the truth behind this incident.
Otherwise, the bandits would have been dealt with without Allen needing toe in at all.
Then does that mean that there are people who had predicted this?
Elizas eyes curved like crescent moons.
Her son had changed. Her husband had changed.
Something had been trying to use those around her unbeknownst to anyone else.
So, was it necessary to stay put any longer?
Gardell, send out invitations for me. Id like to meet with my friends for the first time in a while.
Her new son had made a lot of money, it would only be right to have some fun with it.
Didnt she deserve as much, ying the role of stepmother?
High society Oh how long it has been.
If you cant do something alone, then you have no choice but to borrow someone elses strength.
She waved her hand, and Gardell quietly left the room.
Left alone, Eliza quietly dusted off the armrests.
A number of things came to her mind. Of happy daily life, of peaceful days, day after day. Now, that routine had fallen apart.
...Julius
She would have to stay busy from now on, taking part in high society, disying their luxury, and secretly pursuing her goals.
Despite the uproar ringing throughout the city, her own surroundings were silent.
Like the calm before the storm.
Chapter 35
Chapter 35
House Reinhart had a deep history.
It couldnt bepared to the three generations of families that had prevailed right after the fall of the great empire, but it had a long history nheless.
As a result, there were countless treasures in their trove. So much so that nobody would believe that the family was on the decline.
Whoa There are so many cool things
Linbelle nced at the treasure, filled with curiosity. Not having seen her for a month, she appeared considerably differentpared to when Allen had first met her.
Her body movements
They were very natural.
Before leaving for the ruins, Allen had entrusted their training to the knights. As such, he had expected some bad habits to remain. However, he didn''t see any.
Shes so talented Could she be one of the Top Eight?
Unfortunately, she didnt appear to have tapped into her prana. Regardless, her growth was still unbelievable. Compared to Allen and Julius, she was remarkably talented.
Im d I got her on my side.
The dark figure that he had seen in the carriage was now nowhere to be found.
Maybe Im exaggerating a little
He may have been seeing things. Allen turned his head.
There were many strange, umon things in the trove. The four troves contained a number of shimmering jewels, wands shrouded in mist, and crystals humming with a blue electric current.
As the family had taken a particr interest in magic, there were many magic-rted objects there.
Linbelle drew closer to examine the curious items. Inellia, seeming to be worried about her, sneakily approached her.
Linbelle, you know you cant touch anything, right?
I know, I know, Mom. Linbelle gave a quick nod, continuing to browse around the trove.
Inellia anxiously kept ncing at Allen, who was walking slowly behind her.
Allen smiled slightly to her, whose eyes seemed to be asking for help, and turned to face the old butler walking with her.
You dont mind walking around with us?
No, I dont mind. You must be amazed, seeing as this is your first visit to the trove.
Gardell, the old butler guiding them through the trove, smiled kindly and nodded.
Ah, well, that one over there
Seeing Gardell curiously looking at Linbelle, Allen asked, What, did my maid do something wrong?
N-No, sir. Miss Linbelle must be d to see you again after so long.
Gardell shook his head as he responded, dispersing his thoughts.
...Phew.
Inellia had been paying close attention to her daughter. She let out a sigh of relief at Gardells answer.
...That is all.
Gardell stopped and smirked before speaking to Inellia.
If you touch anything even once, thats it.
Eek!
We cant rece anything, so please be careful.
...!
Coming to a conclusion, Inellia moved towards Linbellewho was busy walking around the troveas if she couldn''t hold on any longer.
Ah! Sir! Sir! Whats that burning iceAck! Mom! What are you doing?!
Linbelle! Youre his maid. What are you doing? Cant you knock it off?
Ugh, what does it matter to you?! He doesnt mind!
So you want Lady Eliza to have you trained all over again?
Linbelle tensed up at the mention of thedys name.
So you wouldnt care if I told Lady Eliza everything that youve done?
...I would.
Come here, then.
...Hmph. Fine.
Linbelle returned to her mothers side with a disheartened expression.
Witnessing the series of events, Allen asked Gardell with a smirk, Do you enjoy making fun of a maid who doesnt know anything?
Haha As Ive gotten older, Ive found that I need more fun in my life.
Especially since he had only had a few chances to mess with that cunning child who appeared differently on the outside than on the inside.
...The young master doesnt seem to know.
Gardell didnt dig any further into their rtionship and smiled as if he knew nothing.
You have to take the first thing you touch with you.
Its my first time choosing something here, though, so isnt it only right for me to try touching it first?
Allen shook his head, slowly looking around at the things within the trove.
Whatever I take from here, Ill be able to find useful. But I can obtain such items somewhere else.
Two days had already passed since Thanksgiving concluded. As soon as the cleanup was finished, Allen came down to the manors basement using the treasure trove key.
Unexpectedly, Gardell took it upon himself to guide him. Thanks to him, Inellia and Linbelle were allowed to apany Allen to the trove. Although, he wasnt sure why the butler would do him that favor, since they werent close.
I spread my sensing range just in case, but
He was just a weak old man. There was no calcted rhythm to his step, nor was there any abnormality in his breathing or expression.
Allen cast his doubts aside and quickly resumed scanning the items around him. He had to pick up as much as he could before Julius came.
It reminded him of something he read in the book a few days ago.
Julius takes a step inside the treasure trove. Therey treasures collected by their family for generationsexuding their presence.
He does not know when he will have another chance to return to the trove, so he has to choose carefully. While looking at various items, Julius finds it.
It said that he found something special here.
He finds a disy case on the far right of the trove.
Allen stepped forward. His party followed his unpausing endeavor with questionable looks.
Five steps to its left
There were weapons, magic books, jewels, potions, and ancient relics.
His groups expressions became increasingly confused as Allen continued to move past all of these things.
Uhm, sir, are you going to look at anything
No. Theres something I have in mind.
Allen tly refused Inellias indirect suggestion.
Anyway, this ce is overflowing with things that are just simr to other things.
He didnt want to pick anything that he could get somewhere else.
There is a pile of items that does not look like any of the other treasures in the trove. At the very top
Tap.
Allen stopped walking.
..y something valuable. Yet, despite its value, it was rolling around awkwardly.
Catching up to him, Inellia looked at Allen with a puzzled face.
Sir, isnt that just a pile of junk?
He had stopped in front of a pile of useless things. They were items taken from ruins or purchased at auctions for high prices, but were now dust-covered in the trove because of their unknown purposes.
Just as she said, it was a pile of junk.
Well, I found something.''
How many neatly disyed items in the treasury had he passed just to end uping to look at a pile of junk?
All to make the best choice.
He looked closely at it, but it was still absurd to him that it was actually supposed to be worth something.
Allen shook his head and picked up a gray bead from the pile.
Ill take this one.
What?
Linbelle looked at him again, as if she had misheard him. However, his decision remained the same.
Are you really sure thats what you want? Sir, did you hear what I said earlier? If you touch something, then you must take it
Yes, I know.
...And thats still what you want to choose?
Yes.
Looking sour at Allens decision, Gardell asked him several times, yet his decision remained the same.
I want this bead.
Gardell sighed at him, repeating the same warning over and over again like a parrot. However, Allen didnt concern himself with it.
Because
The beads original name is [Heavens Eye].
Now that Ive chosen, lets go back.
...Understood. If youre satisfied, then lets go.
One of the five weapons of the First Warrior.
* * *
* * *
The Incarnation of Light. The yer of Dragons. The Master of Swords.
There had been many titles bestowed upon himwho was given Gods blessingyet the one that best represented him was Warrior.
He was the First Warrior who killed the demons that invaded the ancient empire. He gathered eightpanions to fight the Demon King destroying thend and eventually seeded in ying him.
Though, it seems that even such a great warrior was unable to avoid the fall of the ancient empire. But
What did that have to do with anything?
Even after his death, the warriors impact on the world remained.
The Top Eight,prising the eight strongest warriors on the continent, were derived from the original eightpanions. Furthermore, the location of hisst traces was where Galshdin Academy was built.
Defeating the Demon King despite being a mere human being was a tremendous aplishment.
I cant believe Ive acquired one of the five weapons that he used
Although it was surely something to be happy about, Allen couldnt hide his bewilderment.
The Holy Sword is at the Academy, the ring is in the Great Elf Forest, and his helmet is in the possession of one of the three distinguished families.
Of the remaining two weapons, the First Warriors armor was said to have been broken, and the bead was said to have gone missing.
Who would have thought that the bead would be in the Reinharts trove?
Allen felt an irrational and irresistible flood of emotion from the contrived coincidence.
If the ck book hadnt told me
He was sure that the bead would have fallen into Juliuss hands, just as written.
Brother
Did this have to do with that bastards weird abilities or with luck?
Allen?
Even if it were a coincidence, looking around and finding a little bead in the corner of such arge space
Tap.
Huh?
He was met with Juliuss face. As he turned and looked around, the scenery of their outdoor terrace greeted him.
Were in the middle of tea time.
Allen instinctively swatted Juliuss hand away from his shoulder, then smiled apologetically.
Im sorry, Julius. What were you saying?
Are you okay? Maybe you need to rest
Without showing his distaste for the traces of warmth left on his shoulder, Allen replied, The research that Ive been doing has been progressing well these days, so Ive been staying uptetely. Dont worry about me.
Ah, you said that you made a lot of progress while you were training, too, right?
Yeah.
At those words, Juliusughed with delight, as if the words were his own.
Congrattions! Oh, and I said that Id bring you back a gift from the ruins remember?
Julius chuckled proudly as he took a small box out.
...This.
Like I said, we had a lot of sess at the ruins. This is one of our biggest sesses.
The box looked normal at first nce. However, Allen was able to smell a refreshing scent flowing through the cracks in the box.
You said you were sessful in your training, so take this as a gift.
No How could I? Allen refused, his expression one of bafflement.
Julius smiled and confirmed that it was okay.
A promise is a promise, so take it. Were brothers after all. You can take it.
Julius
Although epting the gift felt burdensome, Allen looked at him gratefully. Julius changed the subject after seeing the look in his brothers eyes.
I heard that your training was a really big aplishment. How much stronger have you gotten?
Allen agonized over Juliuss question.
How much should I tell him?
He knew that he was going to exclude what he gained from the dragons and giants'' bodies. Exposing too much about his newfound strength could lead to some unnecessary wariness from Julius. Nevertheless, Allen knew that his brother was aware that the bandits had been taken care of with a sword rather than magic due to the traces of battle in the waterways.
If thats the case, then
Allen sighed for a moment before answering quietly, ...Well, I dont know.
Didnt you say that you beat those bandits in the underground waterways, though?
Ive definitely gotten stronger Allen hesitated and refused to answer clearly.
Julius asked in frustration, Then doesnt that mean that youve gotten another ring?
I No. I trained in a different system of magic.
...A different system?
I didnt think the Circle Magic System was enough, so I tried another one to supplement it.
Juliuss expression contorted. Allen knew why he made that face.
It was well known that the Circle Magic System was the most efficient system of magic that modern-day sorcerers used. However, that didnt mean that it was impossible to learn most of the other ancient magic systems. Additionally, it wasnt impossible to be familiar with two different magic systems at the same time, but most are only able to focus on one.
Its better to make stuff up like this.
Allen wouldnt be able to hide the fact that he had gotten better at using the sword. Yet instead of telling the truth, he would hone his swordsmanship and use it to make excuses about a body-enhancing magic system that he had discovered.
Because of that, its hard to say for sure exactly how strong Ive be.
Ah Julius looked at Allen wistfully.
Im certain that Julius would never have found the bead on his own. That something in the universe ensured he would find it.
Quests? Systems? It wasnt necessarily like that.
Influencing his behavior, leading him to good results
Allen learned from the ck book that not all of the bastards actions were rted to his Quests. Still, he was always lucky.
Well, if I were to name that phenomenon, it would be the universes blessing. That would be appropriate.
Allens purpose behind having tea with Julius was to try to find out the limitations and benefits of his seemingly divine protection.
The band of thieves were no match for me. That being said, I couldnt ask a busy knight to help me out at the time.
In order for him to have a chance at revealing Juliuss power, Allen had to speak with the intent of rousing the bastards pride and desire to win.
Ah, you said you fought those mercenaries and won there, too, right? Were they strong? I heard you did a really great job.
He ended his goading with a nk expression and said, I wish I could have been there Ah, its too bad.
Julius nced up, as if he had made up his mind.
Then would you like to spar with me?
Caught him.
Hiding the wide smile rising on his lips, Allen asked, With you?
Yes. So you can test out your strength Julius spoke with caution.
Allen thought for a moment before responding, You dont mind?
No. I feel like Ive grown quite a bit too.
Well Alright, Allen replied with a wide smile, as if to show that he would do his little brother any favor he asked.
Whatever you want.
Everything was set.
Well have a good match.
Yes, we will.
The two beamed at each other.
Chapter 36
Chapter 36
The Julius that Allen remembered was closer to a hero of an epic. From his character and nature, even to his conduct.
However, that was not how he actually turned out to be. Juliuss tendencies were far from that of a heronot even close to beingparable to one.
His journey, on the other hand, was a different story. His adventures included killing demons, ughtering ancient beasts, and stopping dark sorcerers plots.
He was really like a hero straight out of a fairy tale.
When faced with a crisis, a strong person would appear from somewhere to help. No matter how trapped they may be, they could always miraculously escape. They had an unending reserve of precious miracles, and they would continue to grow exponentially without ever hitting a wall.
Allen doubted the validity of such circumstances.
How? Howe everything he did always worked out for him?
Not everything could always just work out. Even the most sessful merchants who had established their sess made small mistakes. And people who made big mistakes were able to achieve sess as well.
In other words, nobody truly lived a life without any failure.
But why does he never fail? Allens worries began with questions like this. Over time, he woulde to a few conclusions.
That bastard is either under the universes protection or that of some other transcendent being.
He didnt know if it was from the same thing that gave his brother the System. However, the more he read from the ck book, the more he remembered Juliuss actions from before the regression. And with it, the more confident he became.
The world, regardless of his will, revolves around Julius.
Julius never thought too deeply about what he would do. He would act quickly without thinking beforehand, without worrying.
And the result?
Hes always sessful.
Did he carefully search around the trove to discover one of the Wonders of the First Warrior? One that nobody knew the whereabouts of for the longest time? Left in the far corners of the trove?
Allen had no words. So he created a situation to duel with him.
Or, at least, that was how it came about anyway.
Are you ready?
In order to know the limits of the (temporarily named) Universes Blessing as well as the exact conditions for its activation. To understand Juliuss abilities and find out his habits.
Yes, Brother.
Allen focused his eyes on his opponent. He was shorter than himself. He couldnt believe that he had trained for only a few months.
Were there even any openings? No, there must be. He just must not be able to see it.
I dont think I can win in a battle of swordsmanship anyway.
He would be referred to by various names in the future: The Savior of the Great Forest, The Prisoners Ally, The Demon yer, The Brain God.
What about Allen? What about his epithets? His abilities? The Idiot Who Made a Deal with the Devil Out of Desperation Because He Didnt Know How to Save His Brother? Was that all he was?
To be able to stand on equal footing like this in the first ce
It was all because of his regression and the book, nothing else. If it werent for those two things, he never would have had a chance to face Julius like this again. Yet was that anything to be ashamed of?
No.
It was something he had to live up to.
Brother, I think Im going to win, so Ill go easy on you. Julius confidently wrapped his hands in a dark blue energy. A thunderbolt engulfed his arm, and the electricity covered his sword.
Is that so?
A smile spread across the corners of Allens mouth as he sent out his threads. His heart was beating hard.
I dont think thatll be necessary.
He used about a third of his magic power. His physical body was slightly weaker than that bastards.
He pointed the tip of his dull training sword towards his opponent.
I wish Id brought Ves.
However, since it was only a duel, it couldn''t be helped.
No, Im going to win today.
Any other thoughts vanished. His field of vision was filled with the bastard and him alone. The mana that flowed throughout his body began to elerate, emitting strange waves.
The bastard was going to grow at a tremendous speed But so what?
Well, lets go.
The moment that they faced each other, Allen didn''t feel like he would lose at all. His threads gently wrapped around his sword, forming a translucent film. He couldn''t use his sword to attack yet, so he had no choice but to stop the lightning strike.
His feet left the ground, elerating quickly.
He bridged the gap in an instant. The translucent energy swarmed together and stabbed its target in the face.
Juliusughed at his brother''s seriousness. The pointy tip seemed as if it would pierce into his face at any moment, but his smile didnt falter.
Whoosh.
The sword drilled through the air. Allen looked below him and found Julius there. His body then came crashing down.
It was toote to avoid it.
Allen tapped the air with his free hand, making a shock wave.
Pang!
He didnt expect a good hit, but he didnt think he would be able to stop an attack of this caliber. There was a small groan, and his body was pushed back.
Julius quickly moved through the flying dust.
I cant keep him in check.
He maximized his sensing power, feeling every inch of the sparring grounds.
Where is he?
Fwooom!
Blood spurted out of Allens cheek. His response was slightly slow. He had looked around and detected the attack, but Juliuss sword was faster than before.
He felt a shudder run down his spine.
Theres no way I cant handle a Rank 3. How much had he grown, then?
Crackle
His thought was cut off by the sh of dark blue enveloping his body.
Allen immediately stretched his foot into the air, and Julius bent over with a surprised expression. The force on Allens leg wasnt very strong, yet it was enough to quickly push his body away.
As he got farther away, he shook off the lightning that had been clinging to his body before adjusting the magic within him. Again.
He grew faster than Id expected. Its making me sick.
After having fallen to the ground, he lowered himself and rushed towards him.
He saw Julius get into position, and Allen threw his sword right away.
Whoosh.
What? Julius was perplexed. Allens specialty was magic, not the sword.
Moving his hands with delicate, precise motions, Allen formed a figure. The countless threads he had stretched out soon wove around and turned into cymbals.
Without waiting for Julius to react, Allen struck the instrument.
CLANG!
Thunder in the clouds.
The bursting shockwave became a gray spear, piercing the space.
Julius deflected the flying spear that darted towards him. However, the magic had alreadye in close proximity to his body. The sharp spear made a noise as it approached. Julius hurriedly raised his mana output andunched his sword.
FWOOSH!
The magic and swords scattered.
Having predicted his response, Allen closed the gap between them. Grabbing his training sword with one hand, he bent down.
Whoosh.
With the de passing overhead, Allen bundled up the remaining thread on one hand and threw it into the air.
Hammer.
The threads intertwined themselves into a hammer and fell, forcing Julius to block the attack and retreat once again.
Allen hurriedly ran after him, stabbing his sword at him. However, he had no choice but to back down as Julius blocked him with his cross guard.
...Haha, your skills have improved so much, Brother.
The same goes for you, Julius. Im sure you wouldnt have been able to fight like this a few months ago
Its all thanks to hard work.
Is that so?
Yes.
It was an excuse that nobody would believe, but what else could he do?
Thats what he said.
Allen smiled and took up his stance. It was still sloppy, but thanks to Vess guidance, he at least had the basics down.
This time
Allen would go first.
The first toe in was Julius, moving even faster than before. His sword didnt have a proper de. However, just because it didnt have a de didnt mean that his weapon wasnt dangerous.
Electricity crackled. The blue lightning made the training sword a more dangerous weapon than a sharpened one.
I need to know everything about that bastard. His habits, his patterns, his reactionseverything.
Could he do it?
This is it.
Julius became confused after hearing Allen talk to himself.
He didnt need to answer. A thread wound around Allens sword. No matter how fast the bastard may be going, Allen could catch up.
And to some extent, bring out his power.
He needed to be able to match it.
Julius rushed forward with lightning surrounding his body. Allen rushed forward ordingly, the vitality of a giant imbued into his ordinary steps, giving him more power.
CRACKLE! CLANG!
Their swords shed. Julius''s strike resembled a lightning bolt. Allen''s, on the other hand, was more honest.
Bang!
Is this the end?
The electricity dispersed. Juliuss sword had shattered, and the film on Allens sword had disintegrated.
No. This is just the beginning.
Julius then sent out lightning bolts from his eyes. The spell formed around his abdomen and made its way up towards his head, giving him the appearance of a Brain God.
Really? Allen responded as his threads flew out in all directions. Blocking the lightning, the threads began to intertwine with sharp des.
I think so too.
And their duel resumed.
* * *
* * *
Pan, the probationary knight in charge of judging the duel, watched with a zoned-out face.
The electric shocks fell, tearing down the training grounds. Juliuss attacks were swift and unpredictable, while Allens were blunt and heavy.
Overall, it was an arrangement where Julius was pushing Allen.
Sir Allen was originally known to be a sorcerer.
If it were anyone else, they would push away the lightning electrocuting them with magic before defending against attacks that were difficult to follow with the naked eye.
He didn''t seem ustomed to using his body just yet, but Pan thought that the fact that Allen was able to fight against Julius like that was a feat on its own.
He turned his gaze towards Julius, d in dark blue lightning.
That guy
He couldnt believe that he was his master. He recalled the time he dueled with Julius over an apology a few months back.
I lost miserably.
He was unlucky then, but he thought he had grown a little more. It had been a long time since he had been unable to catch up with Julius in the blink of an eye.
He said that he became his subordinate that day, but he never called himself such.
When will he call me?
He shook his head. A knight must always stand by for his lords call. Hed been called to referee this match.
He just hasnt had a chance yet. He hasnt forgotten me.
It was all because of hisck of confidence. Had he developed his skills, Julius would look for him.
Pan gave up his thoughts and focused on the match. This opportunity hadnte easily.
* * *
Allen continued repeating their bouts dozens of times.
Next is going to be on the lower right?
He lowered his sword faster than he predicted the blow. As soon as he moved his sword, he blocked the attack aimed at his lower half.
ng!
The next attack will be on my left shoulder. No, on my mid-left?
Allen had moved in ordance with the information he had collected so far. However, a sharp sensation ran through the back of his neck.
He barely lowered his head, but the wind brushed the hairs on the back of his neck, causing a rush of goosebumps.
Is this the fifth pattern?
As he continued observing him, Allen was able to get a grasp on his habits, patterns, and attack styles. Julius preferred to attack from the top rather than the bottom, and the right rather than the left. He also had a habit of unconsciously increasing the amount of lightning he produced if his attacks were blocked.
Thats a total of 37 patterns.
Perhaps it was because he hadnt trained in months, but his attack cement seemed to be limited. Moreover, his stronger attacks seemed to only focus on his opponents head.
I think I might know everything now
As Allen collected information about his habits, he also confirmed the fact that he had grown to be stronger than Julius.
Of course, the stronger he got, the more unnecessary tendencies would disappear. However, after umting all the information, it would surely be easier tond a finishing blow on him.
This will be thest time.
Would the Universes Blessing protect him now?
Im going to check.
Julius rushed towards him again. As if he were enjoying the duel, he smiled and continued attacking.
Allen blocked his attack and moved around to his side.
Julius persistently pursued him, cornering him.
And the seemingly exhausted Allen struggled to withstand his attack.
Brother, is this it? Didnt you tell me you were going to win?
Allen didnt say anything. As if it were too difficult to even open his mouth. As if it were too much to do so.
You dont have the same momentum as you did earlier
To the center of the training grounds. Just a little Just a little bit more Almost there. Just one more step
Honestly, Brother. I didnt know you were this stro
Bang!
As Julius struck, Allen rolled back, as if hed lost all his strength.
The magic that he prepared had been canceled, and he was left defenseless.
Cough, hack, cough!
Vomiting blood on the floor, Allen could barely stand up. He was in a state where it was difficult to even hold his sword any longer.
However, refusing to admit defeat, he squeezed out thest bit of mana remaining and cast his spell. A few threads bundled into a small awl.
His face paled as a result, and Juliusughed, as if his brothersst struggle were ridiculous.
And just like that
Its my
The moment Julius tried to dere his victory
...VictoHuh?
He couldnt move his body.
Huh?
Julius quickly looked at Allen, whose expression looked just as confused as his own.
He couldnt move. As if all of his limbs were cramping, he couldnt move.
The sharp awl flew towards his chest.
He was terrified. It was a situation in which a sibling may identally die while having a little spar.
As Julius stared nkly at the awl darting towards his heart
Crash!
Suddenly, there was an explosion in the space through which the knife was passing.
A mana superimposition explosionsaid to be an extremely rare urrence in which various types of magic were mixed togetherhad materialized when the awl nearly passed by him by ident.
S-Stop the duel!
While Allen''s eyes sank deeply, the startled Pan stopped the match and ran to Julius. His face had turned blue, shocked by what had just happened.
Y-Young Master, are Are you alright?
He rubbed the fallen Juliuss arms and legs. As if unsure, he uttered with a trembling voice, Perhaps youre dehydrated, or maybe youve gotten a cramp during your fierce battle?
Coming to his senses at his question, Julius asked, You think I have a cramp?
Yes, s-sir. No, I mean, my lord. Ive experienced it a few times during training but I believe you may be experiencing severe cramping in your limbs.
Allen hurried to Julius, as if hed only just nowe to his senses.
Julius! Julius! Are you okay?
Ah, yes, yes. Im fine, Brother.
I-Im sorry, Julius. No, how could this happen?
As Allen turned pale in shock, Juliuss suspicion of whether or not his brother had intended the oue of their battle disappeared.
He could never have done that on purpose.
From Juliuss final attack to when he cornered Allen. He couldnt fathom that his brother, all in a hurry to stop his own attack, would have ever even thought of doing such a thing. He didnt have any motive to.
No, how could this have happened? Pan, was it? Call a priest.
Y-Yes.
No need, Brother Its just a cramp
Its not just a cramp! Do you have any idea how dangerous that was just now?!
As Allen screamed his worries, Juliuss final remnants of suspicion melted away.
Then go ahead.
Let me help you up.
Yes.
Pan hurried out from the training grounds to find a priest.
Are you sure youre okay?
Yes. I think I can walk now. Julius grinned, hiding his worries.
Why are you smiling so hard? Allens tone was rough, yet it showed worry for his brother.
Haha, its just funny, seeing this side of you.
Does it feel good to tease me?
Allens voice was filled with fondness.
When would be a better time to make fun of my brother if not now?
Would you shut it Tch.
However
Take a few days to rest. Ill tell Father.
Id love to. Thank you.
Yeah.
His eyes stared at him, devoid of emotion.
As always.
Chapter 37
Chapter 37
If you think about it again, there were quite a few precious things located in the county.
Before heading to Hibelle, an elixir in the city to increase his mana. The dragon and giant remains and Ves in a ruin southwest of the county. One of the five Wonders of the First Warrior gathering dust in the family''s treasure trove. Ancient relics found in numerous ruins explored by Julius.
There were so many treasures out there in the world, but were people simply incapable of finding them or was the Reinhart territory just overflowing with precious objects?
What was clear was that Julius had found many treasures in the estate before the regression.
Rumble.
Ah!
If Allen left them as they were, it would only be a matter of time before Julius would find them again this time.
Ruuuuuuumble.
Aah!
The reason why Allen was currently riding on a carriage was rted to that very same issue: it was in order to get in advance the things that Julius had had first, as well as to strengthen his partys power.
Because of this, Allen had secretly left the manor with Inellia and Linbelle, camouged in a shabby carriage so as to go unnoticed.
Rattle.
Ah My butt
Linbellewho kept adjusting her posture from the difort of the rideturned her head sideways to the pair of eyes she felt on her.
Ah! Sir?
What is it? Is this because its not your usual carriage?
Thats Hehe.
She smiled awkwardly and nodded.
Linbelles butt hurt so much because of the stiff feeling of this carriage ride, unlike the one she normally took. No, it was more like she looked sick.
She was surprised by her sudden reduction in tolerance as a rural girl whod been used to difort and hardship just a month ago.
Although, such behavior was natural.
If I dont do this
Then would she be able to use prana?
Allen had said she had talent. Hed said that prana was a noble power, and she understood that clearly.
Inellia sometimes disappeared somewhere, saying it was Allens orders.
He had said that she could definitely use the noble power of prana, but instead, she tried to take it slowly, unduly considerate.
Her mother asionally left her seat at Allens orders. Because she was recognized for her power.
I need to get stronger.
It took strength to not go through the same thing again. Just enough, at least.
But despite how the weeks and months passed, despite the blisters on her hands that formed from swinging her sword, despite the knights saying that there was nothing more to teach her
She was nothing but a maid who could wield a sword.
Maybe that was why Linbelle naturally behaved so cutelydoing so was an instinctive act meant to prove the value of her existence.
I guess I got toofortable, hehe.
The truth was that it didnt actually hurt that muchit was only natural to be able to endure that level of pain after having trained so much.
To prove herself usefulto prove that she didnt take advantage of their goodwill.
She fluttered her eyshes.
With a smile, Allen asked her:
There are going to be more times when youll have to ride in shabby carriages such as this. What will you do then?
Hmmm Ill have to just get used to it, right? Hehe.
Linbelle smiled as she glossed over the question but Allenthinking that she just couldnt adapt to the circumstancesreplied:
Make sure you can adapt next time.
Pout. Alright.
Unable to stay still, she sniffled after receiving Allens warning.
Allen judged the time by looking through the carriage window at the dense forests and mountains in the distance.
Hm At this rate, itll probably be another 30 minutes.
Allen hardly felt any pain after gaining the attributes of a giants body, but he could understand hershe remembered what it was like to live in his weak, untrained body before his regression.
It hasnt been long since she started training. It must be hard.
Allen pondered for a moment before opening his mouth.
* * *
* * *
Are you that ufortable?
She nodded her head immediately.
Yes!
Allen sighed.
Dozens of threads burst out.
Just this once.
What? Kyaaa!
A thread connected to Linbelles body, letting her float in the air.
Woah
Her eyes sparkled as she carefully looked around in the air.
Hehe Thank you, sir.
Next time, try to bear with it yourself.
Yes, sir~
Allen had grown so tolerant of Linbelle.
He wasnt sure if it was because of the guilt that he felt for causing her death before the regression, or because of the responsibility he felt for having employed her as a maid.
Or
Is it because her existence is proof?
Proof that the future can be changedthat their destinies can be overridden.
What could it be?
But he didnt bother trying to change her attitude. She was his personal maid, so what was wrong with treating her a little special?
Hm, hmm, hmmmhmmmmmm
Allen stared quietly at her as she hummed before asking about something that suddenly came to mind.
Linbelle, is Miss Francisca back yet?
Miss Francisca is No, she hasnte back yet.
She hadnt returned yet?
Without any news?
No, none. Shall we check when we get back to the manor?
Alright, lets do that.
OK!
Allen needed to meet with her.
To be more specific, he needed to meet with her to learn more about the chimera soul hed gifted her.
Come to think of it, I havent heard from her in over a month.
Allen leafed through the ck book, recalling his memories of the past, but unfortunately, all it said was that shed left with Prindal after being summoned to the magic towers.
Id like to see her before we leave for the academy.
Shed left before the Thanksgiving festival, but nobody had heard from her even after the festival had concluded.
He found himself deep in thought.
Knock, knock.
Sir, we stopped
Everyone,e out!
Come out, dammit!
!!
Allen sighed as he heard the husky voices following Inellias.
I cant believe bandits appeared in such a deserted ce.
Or did the bandits show up because they were in a deserted ce?
Ya cante out quick? Ya wanna die? Take everything you have ande out!
Sir?
Yeah, lets go.
Creaaaaak
A rusty hinge creaked as the carriage door opened.
The cool autumn breeze greeted him as he descended from the carriage. Looking around, he saw colorful maple leaves beneath bare trees, coloring the world orange.
As he turned his head upward, about 15 bandits in dirty clothes looked at him with dreary smiles.
Bro, bro, isnt this the best?
Whoa Were robbin nobles. Your eyes are great, bro.
Yeah, guys! I told you we should hide here!
Allenughed at them, talking as if theyd already seeded in their robbery.
Sir, I can handle this. Unless theres a reason why you bothereding out
No, I was about to stop the carriage anyway since it will soon be difficult to finish our journey via it.
Then Ill take care of this quickly
Me!
Inellia was about to step out when Linbelle cried out:
Ill do it.
Inellia tried to stop her. Inellia said that it was too soon, that she would do it herself.
I want to show you the results of my training.
However, the words following her earlier statement were suffocating.
If Im to keep following Sir Allen, I can''t avoid battle forever, can I? This battle would be good for experience.
Knowing her usual temperament, and how she mustve felt when she said those words, Inellia remained silent.
Allen stared at her as she spoke, then consented.
Alright, this will be good experience.
Yay! So then
But
Allen met her eyesonly eagerness swirled around in them.
Youre going to kill a man. Its not toote to kill something other than a human for your first time. Do you still want to do it?
She answered without hesitation:
Yes, Ill do it.
Well, then Go ahead, show me your progress.
When Linbelle picked up a sword and went out, the bandits let out loudughter.
Aw, baby, why are you here alone? Is that little prince abandoning you
Clink.
Huh?
It happened in an instant. In front of them, the bandits head rose into the air. His body, spurting blood, fell to the side. Linbelles swordship showed no hesitation.
Just as shed learnedjust as her body had been trained.
Minimizing movement, maximizing fluidity.
Jake! How dare you
Her sword moved.
Choke, gurgle.
Ignoring the terrible feeling of separating flesh from bone, she emptied her mind as much as possible.
Because this act is a good deed.
It wouldnt be mere murder. The person in front of her was a banditdozens of people must have shed their blood and tears because of them, so this was both necessary and just.
What are you all doing? Kill her!
You bitch!!
Linbelles face lost its expression, and she chanted softly:
Prana is a noble power
So, this battle
Shuk.
Aaaaaaaahhhhhhh!
Is a noble act, meant to wash away evil.
A crude ax flew over her. She avoided it by twisting her waist slightly, lowering her body, and thrusting her sword over her head at the same time.
It pierced someones chin, sliding right through their head.
Four.
She demonstrated her capabilities for using that noble power.
Diiiiiie!
She lowered herself and stabbed the enemying in from the side in their shoulder. At the same time, she dodged a sword swiping down and backed away.
Whoosh!
Her bangs fluttered.
A bandits neck was slit in her big attack. A fallen one spewed bubbles of blood. Linbelle cut the wrist of a bewildered bandit beside her before quickly stabbing him in the chest.
W-wait a minute, I-I surrende
Stab.
Seven.
After that, it was a ughter.
With half of their people killed in an instant, the remaining bandits gave themselves up, unable to even think of fighting back.
Haa, haa
Linbelle, are you okay?
Inellia looked nervously at her, approaching her as soon as the battle had finished.
Its alright. Theres nothing wrong. Im fine. Its just because I moved so suddenly.
Linbelle squeezed her trembling hands, continuing on as if shed done nothing more than simply lift something heavy.
It still wasnt enough. Without magic or prana, she could only do this much.
Are you okay? Are you tired?
Allen asked, turning a blind eye to her shaking hands. Because it was she who chose this oue, and that choice needed to be respected.
Yes.
Linbelle controlled her wobbly expression, raising the corners of her mouth.
Hehe~ It was kinda tough, but I''m okay!
Really? Lets take a break and then keep going, in that case.
If its because of me
Linbelle hurried out of Inellias arms and spoke hurriedly, but Allen shook his head.
Its just to see if there are other people nearby. You dont need to worry about it.
Ah.
He noticed Inellia expressing her thanks with the sound.
Allen stretched out his sensing range and looked around for a moment. A small voice came from behind him.
Thank you.
Allen didnt say a word.
That was enough.
Chapter 38
Chapter 38
After some time, Allen and his group continued moving towards Mount Nicaea. The carriage couldnt make the remainder of the journey, so they had no choice but to walk.
I wonder what kind of quest Julius is going to do.
Allen was currently on a two-week probation. He, as well as Panthe probationary knight whod refereed the dund Julius.
The reason behind which was simple.
The probationary knight wasnt fit to take charge of his supervising role designed to prevent careless mistakes and sudden idents and as a result of this, a major ident could have taken ce.
Although their father rarely showed his anger, he had punished each of them.
I cant tell if it was because of our random confrontation or because of Juliuss close call.
So, Allen and Julius were both under house arrest for two weeks on opposite sides of the house. Panwho had done nothing but get himself involved with themwas fully punished, receiving 500 hours of nighttime duty and intensive training.
Allen made use of this time and secretly left the mansion to take the potions that Julius had gotten. He had blocked the entrance to his side of the house under the pretext of training to hide that he had escaped, and he rode a shabby carriage and moved around less-popted roads to avoid being tracked.
Now it was time to taste the fruits of theirbor.
Ill go over it from the beginning. From here, well split up.
Yes, sir.
Do you have the map I gave you? Inellia, Linbelle, you two will start from the southeast and go northwest.
Inellia and Linbelle replied with eager faces.
I guess shes calmed down now.
Linbelle had returned to how Allen normally saw her.
Well do it.
Yes!
In the mountains behind Elle Round, he took all the potions that bastard gave him.
I want to see Juliuss flustered expressionter
It would be impossible to see it in person. Allen felt a little regretful at that fact but felt some satisfaction at just the mental image.
Well, Ill meet up with you both in six hours.
Good luck, sir.
Thank you. Inellia, theres nothing here that could harm you, but dont let your guard down.
You dont need to worry.
Alright, lets go.
Allen felt the two pairs of eyes on the back of his head and flew away.
He didn''t have enough time to take all the potions while at the mountain.
* * *
Nine people were seated at a small round table in the center of the white-marble-tiledmon area. And around it, there were countless seats that not even hundreds of people could fill, encircling the round table like those of an opera house.
However, while most of the seats would typically be empty, they were all filled.
From the most powerful sorcerers in thend and the Masters of magic towers, to leading sorcerers of different schools of thought and Rank 4 sorcerersthe figures upying the seats were more than qualified to be called mid-ss sorcerers.
mor, mor.
Do you know why the emergency call was sent out?
Well its not like a gate has opened somewhere.
Hm, well maybe? But if that were the case, would there be any reason to hide the reason for the summons until now?
That is true.
Most of them didnt know why theyd been called there. They exchanged their greetings and spected over the reason behind their being summoned. Francisca, sitting in the corner of her seat and clinging onto her gigantic robes, was struggling to resist her boredom.
I shouldnt havee.
Even if shed tried to avoid the magic tower, though, she was forced to follow because of her grandfather''s insistence that a sorcerer should obey their duty.
I finally found the person Id heard of in the prophecy.
Shed only ever seen one prophecy. Because of the prophecy, her grandfather became a sorcerer for the Reinhart family at her request, and she herself worked tirelessly to be a Rank 4 sorcerer as wend after a long period of hardship, she finally found the main character of her prophecy.
Why do I have to be held here for a month?
Francesca''s angry eyes rolled over to a young man sitting near the round table. She went deeper into her robe, hiding herself.
Itd be difficult for her to bear it, otherwise.
How much time had passed?
Bang!
How long are you gonna keep us waiting? Barden!
Pardellone of the seven Masters of the magic tower of fireshouted, turning towards the center of the table at the Master of the magic tower of light, who was likely to have ordered the convening of this meeting.
Alright, Barden, isnt it time to tell us? It wouldnt be any fun if you called us here for no reason~
Y-yeah, m-my research is b-backed up n now. H-how long are you g-going to make u-us w-wait?
Subsequently, Skyna, of the mutation school of thought, and Marghol, of the restriction school of thought, spoke.
After that, the sorcerers who were tired of waiting followed suit and startedining to Barden.
How long are ya gonna keep quiet, Barden?
Dont forget, an emergency summons needs to have a good reason behind it, Sorcerer Barden.
Theres a limit to our patience, Tower Master.
Barden, whod been silent for a while, opened his mouth once hed judged the atmosphere to be ripe enough.
Yes, thats right.
At his reply, the noisymunity went rather quiet.
The sorcerers.
Even apart from the schools of thought with which they were familiar, they were highly knowledgeable andposed intellectuals.
There must be a good reason for issuing an emergency summons.
Knowing that, you still kept silent until now? For a month! No, two weeks above that have passed, even. You must have grounds for wasting that time.
Pardell, with his violent personality, stared at Barden with a threatening look.
Yes, of course there was a good reasona reason for issuing an emergency summons all while hiding the impetus for it.
Barden, however, did not blink an eye at Pardells threats and immediately nodded. Pardell gave a short huff and shut his mouth. Even if his personality was rather explosive, he was still a sorcerer. He was ready to listen to Barden in order to hear his good reason.
And that reason was when it would really be ''justified.
Im sure you all know what kind of person the first Master of the magic tower of light was.
They all nodded.
Why did he call an emergency summons without giving a reason?
He was one of many who taught the First Warrior the knowledge of light, and he sacrificed his own life right before the fall of the ancient empire to keep countless systems of magic from being forgotten.
Because all of them respected the first Master of the magic tower of light, at least outwardly.
It would be no exaggeration to say that the reason why modern magic had developed so much was all thanks to the first Master of the magic tower of light. If Pardellwho was famous for his violent personalityhad issued an emergency summons, would he have seen even half of the number of people here?
If even only a quarter of the people hade, it would still have been a lot.
Following his will, our school deals with light, studies it, and explores what light is for a lifetime. There are a lot of artifacts associated with it.
Everyone knew all this already, but nobody cut him off.
Because they thought there mightve been a reason behind his saying it.
Thats why we are sensitive to darkness. Or, to be more exact, why we are sensitive to magi.
Crash!
No
Pardell subconsciously jumped up and looked at him.
Yes, thats right.
Their brilliant minds hade to their conclusions, even though he hadnt yet finished speaking.
A few months ago, I detected magi in two separate locations on the continent.
As he uttered those words, countless eyes stared at him in astonishment.
!
!
Barden was unsurprised, however, because hed anticipated their response. He hammered it in, confirming that what hed just told them wasnt a lie.
Magi, whod disappeared since the overthrowing of the first king.
Silence engulfed them.
* * *
A wooden box in the middle of five trees Ah, I found it.
Shaking the dirt off of the box, Allen opened its lid. Inside, there, wrapped in a soft cloth, was a ss bottle containing a dark-blue liquid.
Whats the effect of this potion?
Glug, glug, glug.
Allen opened the ck book, turning the pages quickly. The part that hed read appeared.
Julius followed the map that hed received as a Quest Reward
Not here.
After turning a few more pages, something caught his eye.
Inside a wooden box, there was a potion called [Blue Meteor Rainstorm (A)]. 57 years ago, this potion
After skipping the details of the potions creation, he found the information he was looking for.
The effects of the potion were simple: it absorbed mana from the users surrounding space into their body, improving and stabilizing their mana cirction
Hm, it isnt really working for me.
For Allen, whod already gained the abilities of that of a giant, improving his mana cirction or increasing the amount of mana he could use was of little use.
It wouldve been nice if it were something that could increase my affinity or sensitivity to mana, instead
But even though it was useless for him, that didnt mean he could leave it behind. Just because he didnt need it himself didnt mean that nobody else would need it.
Ill give some to Inellia and Linbelle and keep the rest.
Just as Allen was about to take the wooden box, he heard a voice.
I found it! Yay, I found it! What did I say? I told you I''d find it!
A high-pitched voice.
He turned around to see an antique sword flying through the air.
Ves.
I told you I could read maps! Why did you doubt me? Arent I so good at this? Hurry up and apologize! Lets hear it!
Allen smiled bitterly and spoke:
Yes, Im sorry for doubting you.
Yeah, be more careful next time! I mean, who cant read a map?
Vesughed triumphantly, shaking the de of her sword, as if pleased with Allens apology. A map marking the location of the potion hung by a string tied to her handle, fluttering.
Her gaze, which had been lingering around him for quite some time, turned to the ck book.
Did you read the book again? Isn''t it just nk? Dontcha feel like there should be something in it?
Well, I dont know.
Hmmmm Well, whatever, I''m not that obsessive, so I won''t ask about it anymore. Do I hear a thank you?
Thank you for your troubles.
Ves couldnt read the contents of the bookor, more specifically, she couldnt see them. The book appeared to be nk inside, with nothing written.
I can read all of the contents, but I cant read the title.
But she could read the title, and then she couldnt read the content. Allen didnt know exactly what it meant, but it was clear to him that she was somehow connected to the ck book.
I dont know exactly what part of her is connected to it, but
Since she didnt seem to know either, hed have no choice but to figure it out for himself.
* * *
* * *
Allen, naturally filling up the hole that hed dug to find the wooden box, asked:
So, what did you find? Moonflower? Broken Eagle Statue? A cave, or something?
Allen was able to find out the location of the objects that Julius had found during a certain period before the regression via the ck book. Everything was described in writing, however, so it didnt list the exact locations.
Its lucky that the characteristics of the ce where the potion was located was described so well.
Thanks to that, he was able to estimate their locations bybining that information with the maps that their family had. However, the problem was that their search radius was too wide. Its why hed split up with Inellia and Linbelle.
We wouldnt have had enough time to go around and get everything if we went together.
There were too many ces to look.
Inellia could move quickly, and she had experience as a hunterso she wouldnt have a hard time searching.
As soon as Allen split off from them, he began to search the mountain with Ves who seemed to be having a hard time. Fortunately, she was able to fly, so she could aid their search from overhead. Meanwhile, Allen could use the information in his ck book to look around.
Because she understood the ck book, he could overlook her strange behavior, staring into space.
At Allens question, she shook three times as if to disagree, and began to speak:
Hey, theres a spot on the top of the map with an X on it.
An X?
Wouldnt the map have only disyed a mark somewhere around the location of their target?
No, it cant be
It was where hed given up.
A ce where that bastard, unlike how most would traverse through such ces, speedran for a Quest Reward.
That was why that ce was only marked with an X.
You found the Spring of Spirits?
Yes, thats right!
And it wasnt even marked properly?
I mean, I found it, right? Sigh, Im the only one here, right?
Didnt you say you read the map to find it?
Huh? Um, so, anyway, isnt it fine since its been found? Lets go! Are you not gonna go?
Allen looked back at her, staring at her intently and begging her to go, and answered:
Yeah, but thats not the important thing here.
If shed really found the Spring of Spirits
Then Please guide me.
He was willing to overlook her white lie.
Follow me so you dont get lost! Ill leave you behind if you do!
Allen quickly followed Ves, heading deep into the mountain. Mount Nicaealocated close to Elle Roundwas home to nothing dangerous enough to stop Allen, allowing the two to move smoothly.
As they did, suddenly curious, Allen asked her:
How did you find the Spring of Spirits? Honestly, I didnt even think itd be possible to find it
Chapter 39
Chapter 39
Ah, that? You know that familiar smell when you walk around?
A familiar smell?
I smelled a goddamned long-eared frea ahem, high elf, so I went and found their barrier!
The sword could smell?
Ignoring the deep-seated question, Allen asked about the barrier.
A barrier?
Yeah! It seems to block all living things other than spirits, but!
Stab.
Ta-da! It was no match for this beautiful genius!
Allen stopped for a moment at Ves, whod suddenly disappeared right in front of his eyes.
Is this how she got around it?
He spread out his sensing range, closely searching around the space in front of him, but he couldnt find anything. Nothing but an ordinary forestno traces of mana or barriers.
If it weren''t for Ves, I wouldve never found it.
After Allen didnt follow, she shouted back loudly, thinking he was hesitating:
Youe in, too! If you use your body, cant you just force yourself in like me?
Taking note of his surrounding terrain, Allen walked forward slowly. He walked for a moment, resisting against something gently pushing his body away.
Why are you taking so long!
He turned towards the familiar voice, finding Ves shouting and pping around in the distance.
Allen walked in her direction and looked around. A gentle windcontrasting the chilly outsidea fresh green sprout peeked out from through the ground, and a small waterfall flowed across the forest, creating a refreshingndscape.
Is this the Spring of Spirits?
Yes, its the entrance to the barrier, to be exact! The Spring of Spirits is in the middle of it!
Ves finished her statement and flew away. Allen had a strange feeling as he followed her towards the center of the forest. It seemed like something important was missing
I havent seen any life here yet?
He sensed around, but strangely enough, there wasnt even a single creature to be found. From knolls or bears, which weremon in the forest, to squirrels running through trees and birds flying through the skybasically, there was a total absence of animals that should be living in a forest.
I guess a barrier is a barrier.
Allen left his thoughts behind and headed towards the center of the barrier.
He would be interested if he were a sorcerer who studied barriers, but since he wasnt, he didnt care much. He walked a little further to the ce where the sound of water came from, and he immediately found the Spring of Spirits.
So, this is the Spring of Spirits that Ive heard about.
Just looking at the springwhich was clear enough to see both the waters surface and its floor, sparkling with dozens of colors in an instantmade him feel thirsty. Allen carefully knelt down on his knees and brought his face close to the water.
Be careful! Because once you drink it, its effect disappears.
He stopped.
What did you say?
Allen stopped in his tracks as if he were possessed.
Ah, those high-elf long-eared freaks. What was even the point of having a barrier?
She made her remark and jumped into the spring before Allen could stop her.
Ssh.
Whoo, this is refreshing. When a creaturenot a spirittouches it, the spring bes contaminated, so make your choice!
But, Ves, youre
Is a sword a creature?
Allen reflected on himself having moved rashly and backed away. He was beginning to give up internally, so he opened the book to review the contents, which he''d only nced at earlier.
Juliuspleted the Quest to restore his reputation as a rascal, and was subsequently rewarded with a space-shifting scroll moving towards the Spring of Spirits
Quest Rewards, barriers that no living creature can enter, space-shifting scrolls, and the Spring of Spirits that ends once you drink from it.
Even with Allen''s sensing abilities, he couldnt find a single trace of the barrier, and if it wasnt for the ck book, he wouldnt have even known of its existence.
There were other things, too, but this in particr
Combining the knowledge hed extracted from the book and what Ves had told him, he came to his conclusion.
This was a reward prepared for Julius.
That much was clear. The Spring of Spirits was designated to be a reward for Julius only. Otherwise, it would be nearly impossible to find.
The reason he was able to discover it himself was thanks to thebination of the ck book, Ves''s guidance, and his transformed body. That bastards abnormal strength would be easier to understand, considering that he had the help of these things, too.
Im constantly getting these kinds of things.
He shook his head. It was him, not that bastard, who was upying this ce. There were many opportunities ahead. This way, he could prepare step by step.
Allen drank the springwater without hesitation.
At that moment,
The book linked to detects ! reacts to !
The book linked to detects ! reacts to !
The book linked to detects ! reacts to !
Right after, the pages of the white bookwhich had appeared to have no special abilitiesquickly fluttered like crazy.
Allen jumped to his feet before he could even taste the springwater.
What is this?
But as soon as Allen came to his senses, the white book settled down, returning to its normal state.
Flutter, flutter.
The book linked to detects ! reacts to
As Allen hurriedly opened the white book, the letters in front of him began to disappear just as quickly as theyd appeared.
The book linked to
What ya doin over there?
When Ves opened her mouth,
Allen Reinhart,
Drinking the water of the Spring of Spirits, he suddenly begins to analyze the current situation.
Itd been a long time since it had been a normal book. Allen stared deeply at the white book.
Does the white book have more abilities than simply recording me?
What did everything that just happened mean?
Allen looked at the white book for a while, but the white book did nothing but document his actions, as usual.
* * *
The springwater was surprisingly ndbut although hed just drank what was essentially in water, he believed in its properties.
And its effect was clear.
There were translucent spirits roaming around right in front of Allen''s eyes. Allenwhod had no rtionship with a spirit in his previous life nor in his presentcould clearly sense the presence of several spirits staring at him with curious faces around the spring. It was proof that his affinity had improved by so much that it likely wouldnt be difficult to make a contract with a spirit.
Ordinarily, he would have contemted his newly raised affinity for spirits, but Allen was too busy thinking about what he had just experienced.
Ah, the Spring of Spirits
When he looked at the Spring of Spirits, he saw that the water, which had been shining and sparkling in various colors, turned into an everyday, ordinary spring you could find anywhere.
Ah.
What did I tell ya? Once you drink it, its done for. Are you upset?
No, Im fine.
He didnt care about the Spring of Spirits anymore. To Allen, it was more important that the books response was rted to what had caused him to regress.
How do I get back out? Can I just leave?
Yeah!
Allen quickly collected the remaining spirit elixir after exiting the spring.
A spirit jade located in a broken eagle statue.A moonflower blooming in a pit under a cliff.Even a potion hidden in the sixth cave.
In addition to that, he took all the spirit elixirsthe locations of which he had estimated and foundand returned to the ce where the carriage was.
Linbelle and Inellia had gotten back there first. Ves shut her mouth as soon as Allen joined them.
Sir!
We got everything from the map.
Allen received the goods Inellia handed to him and asked her something hed been worried about.
Did you leave any traces?
We left as few traces as we could, so no matter who finds them in the future, they wouldnt know that wed been here.
Allen was relieved by her response to the question, which had been worrying him.
Good work.
This is
No, we''ll make time for thister.
Allen felt very grateful to her. She covertly did what he asked without question norint. Hed had no idea how reassured she would make him feel, having her as a subordinate.
So I certainly mustpensate her.
He needed to talk to her anyway so he could give her the spirit jade he got, while he was at it.
Ill call for you when I have time, so dont forget about it.
Ah
At those words, she wore a grim face, as if she was going to cry, and nodded.
Yes, understood.
Seeing her reaction, he asked her separately, thinking she was nervous about just the two of them meeting.
If youre nervous, you cane with, Lin
I-I can go alone!
Allen epted her response, as she blushed and quickly shook her head as if it were all okay.
Itll be alright.
They put all the items theyd obtained from the mountain into their carriage and headed for the manor. After several hours had passed, and theyd sessfully snuck back inside the manor, Allen was able to put his mind at ease.
This, alone, cant stop him from growing, but it can at least slow down for a while.
Allen was satisfied with that.
And once some time had passed and their period of probation had ended,
Yes, Julius. Have a safe trip.
Brother, why dont you go with
Im fine. So, you have a good time sight-seeing. There are many strange items to behold around the Capitol, so go look around.
Julius and hispanions headed for the Capitol.
* * *
Julius was headed to the Capitol to put up the ancient relics that hed found in the county at an auction, held in the Capitol around this time every year.
Sir, is it really alright if I ride in the same carriage as you?
Yeah, I dont discriminate against any other types of people.
Julius nodded slightly to Anna, as she fidgeted and looked around.
B-but still, what if other people see
I dont care about that either.
Actually, it would be more beneficial for her to be fully recognized as a person close to Julius.
Laina.
Yes, sir.
You told me that wed stay on Mount Nicaea for a day, right?
Yes, well enter the entrance of the mountain in a minute or so.
* * *
* * *
Knock, knock.
Laina paused at the noise at the carriage door.
Sir, weve arrived at the mountains.
Alright, lets go.
As he opened the door, Byronthe knight who was supposed to have followed him in Garviagreeted him without any slipup.
Weve arrived.
Sir Julius, if theres anything you need to do in the mountains, then by all means
No, thank you.
This would be an event that nobody else could know about.
Im going to take a little walk.
I could escort you
Im alright.
Julius stopped Laina, whod been quietly following him, and went somewhere alone, where there werent any other people. The reason why he moved alone was simple.
Im going to take the Quest Reward for myself.
Until now, hed been dealing with the ancient ruins, the Thanksgiving festival, and the dull while taking care of his normal workloadso he hadnt been able to getpensation for his work yet. So, surely itd be okay if he got a little reward on his way to the Capitol.
First off
An elixir, [Blue Meteor Rainstorm (A)], was located under a royal foxglove tree. It was easy to find with the help of the map. Julius dug at the bottom of the tree, which hed arrived at via the guidance of the map.
But
Huh?
There was nothing there.
W-wait a second, this cant be happening. Is this not it?
Julius checked his map, but it pointed exactly to this ce. Julius looked around his surroundings but found nothing, as if there were nothing there to be found.
No, this cant be happening.
It had to have been just this one. The others must still be there, right?
Hiding his anxiety, he headed to the sites of the other rewards, but
Haha is this a joke?
The spirit jade located in a broken eagle statue, too.
Is this one gone too?
The moonflower blooming in a pit under a cliff, too.
This is fucking crazy. This cant be right. Its gone? Its really gone?
And so had all the potions that escaped sorcerer had finally finished, too.
No, no, dont tell me this one is gone too.
There was nothing there. The snow-covered Julius frantically searched the mountains for his rewards using his map, but
Dont fuck with me! I said dont fucking mess with me! Shit!
It was all the same.
They were rewards scheduled to be received afterpleting quests. Most of the rewards listed on maps were located in Mount Nicaea, so he was nning to take them all at once.
Fuck.
Julius hurriedly pulled out a space-shifting scroll.
No, no, no, no, no.
The map he got after Fathers test. It was a reward that hed saved, thinking that hed receive something even more special.
Tear, rip.
After the scroll had been torn, Juliuss body levitated and quickly moved through the boundary where the Spring of Spirits was located.
What? This is barely even a space-shifting scroll. Please, please.
He didnt use it until now because he thought it would seem suspicious if someone who never left the house suddenly returned from the mountains.
This isnt how it was supposed to be. Fuck. Fuck.
He saw nothing. There was nothing in sight. His heart beat wildly, and he broke out into a cold sweat. The moment he arrived at the Spring of Spirits
Whew, thank God.
The Spring of Spirits maintained its serene atmosphere like nothing was happening. After a moment, he hurriedly swallowed some of the springwater, worried that it may suddenly disappear.
Gulp, gulp.
How refreshing.
Julius settled down and waited for something to happen. He heard that it would be a special reward, so he was expecting something to happen.
But
This elixir is a little slow.
10 minutes passed.
Is this something else? A different special reward?
And 30 minutes passed.
Wait, something something may be wrong
And one hour passed.
After realizing that nothing had happened, Julius forced himself to take a deep breath and head back to the spring.
Haha, I guess I didnt drink enough.
There was no way that it wouldnt work. Julius drank more of the springwater.
Gulp, gulp.
Is this enough yet? More?
One mouthful. Two mouthfuls. Three.
Its notcoughits not enough. IcoughI need to drink more.
He drank 10 mouthfuls of springwater. Then 20.
No, no, this cant be possible. It cant. No way. No fucking way!
He plunged his head into the spring and inhaled. He drank the springwater until he felt like his stomach would burst, yet nothing happened.
Whimper
Was it because he drank too much? Julius, who had only just barely been able to suppress the rising feeling of vomit, gazed at his own reflection on the surface of the water.
Torn clothes and scattered hair. Red eyed and breathing roughly.
His heart pounded like crazy, and his eyes trembled.
Not a single one?
It wasnt until that moment that Julius realized that the reward from the Spring of Spirits, too, had disappeared.
Not even one?
He couldnt bear the realization.
This couldnt be happening. It wasnt what hed been hoping for.
Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck!
Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!
Deep within the forest, Juliuss screams rang out.
Chapter 40
Chapter 40
A week passed since Julius had left.
As Julius headed towards the Capitol, Allen returned to behaving as normal, as if nothing had even happened.
In the mornings, he learned swordsmanship from Ves, and after that, he practiced musical instruments as a hobby. In the afternoons, he studied what he needed to learn as the sessor of the family and researched magic in a small workshop within the manorin between, he went to tea time with his mother and secretly checked in with Inellia.
Allens lifestyle was routine, such that nobody would ever suspect a thing. Even Gaielle, who was keeping a silent yet close watch on him, never caught on.
And, quite the same, the eighth morning began.
Youve been so thorough in your trainingtely, but all of a sudden, youre losing focus on the basics. Thats probably because youve never learned swordsmanship before, isnt it?
It was swordsmanship-learning time with Ves at the moment.
I dont think its bad, per se. Youre doing just fine.
As he began to express his concern with her statement, Ves began to speak in a tone as if she were teaching the basics.
The foundation of swordsmanship is to strike without being hit.
She and Allen stood in the training field dedicated for their use only.
A sword is shorter than a spear, no? If youre to attack each other over a long distance, then itd be most imperative to distance yourself from your opponent.
Allen listened intently to Vess enthusiastic instructions.
So, because of that, if your opponent can escape your range, you cant attack. But
She immediately contradicted her aforementioned foundation.
That doesnt apply for us.
Hiss!
Vess de grazed Allens skin.
Whats the reason for avoiding a sword? Its to avoid injury, of course. Flesh can be cut by a de. But me?
A single coagted drop of blood that came from Allens flesh instantly disappeared, as if it had never existed.
See? Quickly, it resets. Ordinary des wouldnt work on you, either. You wouldn''t be hurt even if it werent me.
At that, Allen felt nothing but sympathy. She was saying that with his body, hed never receive even a single scratch.
So, of course, you shouldnt care whether or not an attacknds.
Coming to her conclusion, she said to Allen:
So you really dont need to pay much attention to your technique.
But isnt technique important anyway?
As he recalled training with the knights of the manor, Allen returned with a question to which she refuted with a snort.
Could you withstand the punch of an ogre?
If I learn swordsmanship, then perhaps someday
Wouldn''t it be better to just dodge the punches and look for opportunities to strike?
I
With a body like yours, isnt it possible to always aim for a counterattack?
He was at a loss for words. Ves had exined it calmly, as if to a child.
Allen, technique onlyes into y when you''re dealing with opponents of simr strength to you. In the face of overwhelming force, its useless, isnt it?
Ves altered her size.
The now-gigantic sword swung itself around, taking down a column. Her size increased so much that she obscured everything else in their surroundings, making it apparent the uselessness of technique among other things.
There are different levels of strength between humansand between each race, too. Between an average knightlike youand an ogres arm, which would be the first to cave?
Ves stopped her attacks and returned to her normal size.
If every living thing had a body like yours, itd be possible for swordsmanship to revolve around skill and skill alone, but thats just not how it is, now is it?
Allen nodded nkly. After making several rounds around Allen, she returned to her ce in front of him.
So, the one thing you need to think about is strength.
Strength
How many times had this word circled around in his head? The swordsmanship that Ves had begun to teach him was slightly different from the notion that had vaguely existed in his mind. It was more simplistic.
Your body is outstanding, so you dont really have a need to dodge attacks. You can just ignore them and focus on returning your own properly executed attacks.
Ignore the little cuts and bruises. You would recover quickly enough. Same for the other attacksif they could be withstood, then pay them no heed.
Only overwhelming strength can crush everything.
Thats really all I have to teach you as the sword of a giant.
As he learned from the sword, he became certain of it: he was right to have brought Ves with him.
If Id left the sword, I wouldnt have gotten to learn how to properly use this new body.
In a short time, hed learned the way of the sword from her. But he could sense that she had a tremendous wealth of knowledge about swords. As he listened to her sermons, Allen asked every question that came to mind.
Then are there any super-secret techniques you could teach me?
There were hundreds of swordsmen on the marketin such a poption, there may not have been any unique, interesting characteristics. But when it came to the aristocracy, swordsmanship was different.
Something where with one cut, thunder booms in the skyor something where swords rain down. Is there anything like that?
Members of the aristocracy were able to inspire gusts of wind, or create mes. There were endless possibilities when it came to magic. Surely, the giants had a swordsmanship technique of their own.
Ves paused at his question, before beginning to speak:
Actually, there is one thing Id like to teach you
She hesitated and blurted out her words, unable to ovee Allen''s undying stare.
Do you remember when we were in the underground waterways?
The waterways? Well
He reminisced on the day that he returned to the city, beating the thieves in the underground waterways.
I asked you if you had some time to spare while we were there.
Yeah.
What had she been asking about so vaguely?
The truth is, Ive been changing my vision for you since then. But
But?
Its too hard. Youre too different from us from the start, sizewise. Im sorry, but I think its going to take a lot more time to fix this.
She said what she had to say with an apologetic tone. It hadnt urred to Allen.
Its enough to have been able to have realized how to use this body already.
Any more than this would be taking advantage of her good will.
''Is it possible to modify the original skill as needed?''
Allen, who didnt really know anything about swordsmanship, could tell howplicated and convoluted her work was.
Was she being honest when she was bragging about being a genius?
No matter how genius she was, Allen hadnt thought that shed be able to fix him in such a short period of time. Even if shed been telling the truth, it wouldn''t be possible to settle it all in a matter of days.
Its alright.
He wasn''t going to rush her.
Its not that urgent, anyway.
There wouldnt be any real potential forbat until Julius returned.
Has that bastard saved that lostdy by now?
While on his way to the royal capital, he identally saved the daughter of a court aristocrat in a dangerous situation. After that, he returned to her kingdom and got caught up in the drama of her family, and ended up helping establish her as her familys heir.
Then, he fights the enemy who broke into the auction house, gets swept away in some issue with the ck market, and meets a princess who hid her identity
Anyway, itd take at least another month for him to return.
I wont rush you, so please, rx.
Wow! Itll be a difficult fix, so, thank you for your patience!
As she smiled broadly and expressed her gratitude, Allen smiled faintly and lifted his training sword, which had been lying on the ground.
Then lets start training, shall we.
Suddenly, a question came to mind.
Ah, by the way, what is the name of the technique you want to teach me?
Its name is [J?tunnsverd]. Its a techniqueposed of a total of nine forms.
* * *
Allen continued to learn from Ves.
He began to take stance unconsciously ording to his opponents attacks, while developing the courage to ignore any attack that came into contact with his body. Even with the overly violent attacks that he used to hesitate at, he learned to pay them no mind.
As he mindlessly moved about, someone knocked on the door of their training area.
Knock, knock.
* * *
* * *
Sir Allen, its time.
Already?
As he shouted for her toe in, Inellia stepped forward to approach Allen.
Good work, sir.
Allen epted the water bottle she handed to him, receiving her hand as it wiped off his face and neck with a familiar expression.
Ves had remained silent in Allen''s hand since Inellias knocking at the door.
What is Linbelle doing?
Trying to erase her dark expression, Inellia responded:
Shes been training since she returned. Perhaps if you called for her, sir
Alllen shook his head.
No, its alright.
It was Allen who would award her a break. On Mount Nicaea, hed checked the results of her training performance, so he was able to quicklye to a final judgment.
Her skills are improving drastically.
She had already reached a state where she could defeat Allen if they fought purely with swords. So, Allen decided that itd be easier for her to grow on her own than have her follow his lead.
Although, she did seem to be in a little bit of a shock from her first kill.
But shed surely get over it in no time.
Although different from her body now, the image of her aplishments from her previous life was so strongly embedded into Allen''s mind that he trusted her more than himself. So, he didn''t worry much about her. He didn''t think she would break down.
Instead, Allen was worried about something else.
Will Linbelle be able to realize her potential in prana in this lifetime?
Prana was a special kind of strength. Even rarer than mana, those who could wield the noble power of prana were praised as the truest of knights.
First, well have to wait and see how it goes until going off to the Academy.
Deep down, he wanted to wait until she realized prana on her own, but if she didnt make any progress by the time he had to leave, hed have to let her just use magic. To aplish what he was aiming to get done at the Academy, her growth was essential.
I have a few ns ready, but
The most favorable oue would be for her to be strong herself.
Linbelle will ovee everything, so theres no need to worry too much.
Is that so? The fact that she hasnt had even one break No, oh, please excuse me, sir. That was presumptuous of me. I apologize.
Allenin an attempt to console Inellia, who was riddled with excess concernbegan:
Everything will be alright. Linbelle won''t copse at this level. Nevertheless you may check in on her if youre still concerned.
In that case, would it be all right if I asked you a favor?
"Sure, its natural for a parent to worry for their children. By the way
Allen encouraged her, whose deep concern for her daughter was apparent in her eyes alone, as he widened his sensing range.
''Okay, theres nobody else in the area.''
After confirming that there was no movement around the training grounds, Allen leaned over and opened his mouth.
How did it go?
Inellia wiped the smile from her lips at Allen''s question, quietly approached him, and whispered in his ear:
"Ivepleted my research on the ''target'' you assigned me."
At that, Allen asked with a cautious look:
How big have they be? What is he doing and where is he?
Inellia had no idea why he wanted to meet him. However, as a maid, it was her duty to oblige by hismand. She did what he asked her to do without question.
On the surface, it was nothing more than a gathering of city gangsters but it isnt so. You can check the details in the report.
She handed him a rolled piece of parchment.
"Also, he''s been staying at the same tavern for several days. Though, if he leaves now, you should be able to meet within three days.
''Haven''t I prepared properly by now?''
The timing was right.
Shall I prepare a carriage?
Allen thought of the person hed soone to meet in the future and replied immediately.
Prepare one at once.
To begin exacting revenge on Julius.
One of the countless people whod expressed opposition to him in his previous life, and a spokesman for those seeking revenge. A man who would lose everything to the present days Julius and woulde to dream of revenge once more.
Acanders Fern.
It was time to meet him.
Chapter 41
Chapter 41
In his previous life, Julius had as many enemies as he did admirerssuch was the price of fame.
From the nobles of the surrounding manors to dark sorcerers. From heathens to the devout. People with various grudges caused numerous idents with the aim to kill Julius.
Acanders Fern.
He, too, was one of the countless people who held a grudge against Julius. The reason why Allen had remembered his name was simple.
He was just so memorable.
There were many who harbored a grudge or thoughts of revenge towards Julius. But even among that grand number of people, he stood out.
His father, Baron Fern, lost his livelihood when he expressed opposition to Juliuss ascension to lead the county. Furthermore, even after his death, Julius robbed him of his familys reports. In order to avenge his father, Acanders banded together and led those who also had a personal grudge against Julius.
To his end.
They seeded in driving Julius into a corner.
Though unfortunately, they failed to kill him.
Dark sorcerers, heathens, and the devout, too, had all failed in the past. Yet, it shocked Allen that Acanders had seeded in at least driving Julius into a corner.
The reason why Allen wanted to meet with him was to involve himself in his ns.
The citizens who caused that fuss at the Thanksgiving festival.
He wanted to reach out to one of them. So, after making his request of Inellia, they began their endeavor to track himultimately finding Acanders in Carvelle, about three days away from Elle Round.
In the present, close to a month had passed. Allen had seeded in figuring out, to some extent, Acanderss location, the size of the group hed gathered, and even some about the situation he was in.
It looks like hes just a drunk who hangs out with alley gangsters, but
Behind the scenes, hed taken part in the events of the Thanksgiving festival, gathering together those who held a grudge against Julius.
The situation is gradually changing, but hehimselfis not.
Unlike in his previous life, his family had been broken up, so his desire for revenge had grown much more intense than before. Unlike his previous life, which had ended along with his father''swhere his father had apparently evaded paying taxes but escaped before the trial, resulting in the destruction of his family.
But that wasnt the end.
Juliusthe main culprit in his familys ruingained praise from doing so in the name of rooting out corruption, all while he had no idea whether or not his father was alive.
This would be the impetus for Acanderss revenge, which began by secretly gathering those whod been impacted by Juliuss actions.
* * *
* * *
Thud.
Allen closed his eyes for the carriage that would take them to Carvelle, the city where hed been gathering his to-berades.
Its worth involving myself.
Itd be worth it to his future self.
He can''t do everything by himself.
Even though hed grown, it was a daunting situationgathering all those people together.
It isnt that efficient, is it?
He wasnt sure if this was the best way to get things started. But what if he were to go to the Academy? Itd be even more difficult.
That''s why, rather than himself, he brought in anothersomeonepetent enough to gather those holding individual grudges against Julius, manage them, and coordinate with him.
It''s rare to find someone this well suited for the job.
One with both a motivation for revenge and the skill to execute it.
Im not sure whether theyll trust me or not, but
Trust was something that needed to be built gradually, anyway.
The carriage moved quietly, unlike usual, towards Carvelle.
* * *
The carriage passed through inspection without any trouble.
It wouldnt have been difficult to pass though quietly anyway, so long as he decided not to reveal his status as heir to the county. After dropping off the carriage, Allen followed Inellia to the bar where Acanders was staying.
He didnt forget to wear a mask and robe to conceal his identity.
The road running through the slums was intricately tangled, like a spider''s web. Even though it was noon, there was a dark atmosphere about the ce, which was littered by more shabby shacks than proper buildings. Vagrants and the homeless sat idly by the roadside, and vignt eyes peered through cracks in the windows.
Inellia skillfully guided them through filthy, stench-filled streets.
In this endeavor, they encountered a few gangsters who tried to block their path, but she dealt with them with a cool face.
Thud.
Gurgle.
Cough.
Despite his injuries, one continued walking towards them, his lower body stained with blood.
Is this the right ce?
Yes, he should be here.
A bar hidden in the nook of the slums. A nted sign hung outside. It was too dark to tell whether or not it was open.
Ill take over from here.
Allen opened the door to the bar without hesitation. Inellia, surprised by his sudden action, followed closely behind.
Squeaaaak.
The old wooden door let out a creaking sound.
He could feel eyes on him, perhaps the result of his unbothered gait.
Allen quickly sent his senses skimming around the bar.
Rotten wood barely supported the ceiling. Rats and insects roamed around everywhere. A musty smell mixed with the smell of cheap alcohol filled the interior.
I figured the ce Id meet him would be like this.
Step, step, step.
The once-noisy bar became silent as soon as Allen stepped in. He turned his sights towards one man. A man who continued to drink his liquor, uncaring of the disturbance in his surroundings.
Brown hair, green eyes.
He looks younger for his age than I remember.
Indicative of how much hed drank, the smell of alcohol radiated from his body. Allen, ignoring all of the pairs of eyes trailing him, took off his mask and sat himself down next to him.
Ill take two sses of anything you have.
Despite his words, nobody moved.
You dont have anything? Im down for food, too, then
Allen continued speaking, as if he didnt care about a thing in the world, but not a single person heeded his request.
Hm you all dont treat guests all that nice, do you. In that
Allen Reinhart.
Tink.
The voice belonged to one Acanders Fern, who set his ss down on the table. Allen, however, wasnt surprised that hed known his name.
Im the brother of his greatest enemyhow could he not know my name?
Allen was somewhat suspicious of his reactionfar less extreme than hed anticipated. Had he known he wasing? Even then, wasnt his reaction a little lukewarm?
So, you know my name?
Do I? I sure do. I do know it, heh
His dimming eyes mocked him.
Your brother ruined my lifesent it right down the gutter, dontcha know.
Rattle.
The people whod been sitting around the bar began to surround himas if they had done it many times before. Inellia''s eyes narrowed coldly.
Allen asked with a friendly smile, as if he didn''t care at all about them:
Are you not curious as to why Im here?
Its obviousits because of what happened with the Thanksgiving festival.
Then what are you waiting for?
Acandersughed to himself and answered his question:
Well, what are you going to do about it? While Im running around, sharpening the de of vengeance, and collecting all these shitbags? So? Are you gonna run away now?
Yeah, sure.
Hah so you wanna make a fool out of me? Well
Crash.
You got the wrong guy, punk!
He snarled and growled, sticking his pale face towards Allen. Inellia flinched slightly at this.
With a nk face, Allen blocked her from stepping forward.
Whats the difference if I rebel? Wouldnt it satisfy your little cravings? If youre going to kill me, do it properly!
If I dont, will you trust me?
If you dont kill me? How could I trust you? You couldnt trust my father. How could I trust you?
In an instant, Acanderss face twisted, contorting as he burst into tears. Inellia was startled by his sudden change in emotion.
My dad wasnt like that. Stealing money? From the people? Ah hah ha
Crying andughing, and moreughing and then crying again. Inellia took a step back from his strange disy.
He changed suddenly a few months ago, sure. Around the same time that those rumors that that fuckin rascal had changed or something too, ya know?
He rolled his eyes and mumbled to himself, empty-mindedly reminiscing the past.
And then, at the Thanksgiving festival, I pushed that kid and made a scene.
Acanders spoke in a mocking tone, yet acknowledged the truth.
Yeah, sure. Good lord Julius is just like the rising sun, but what else is there for disgraced street trash like me to do?
Allen, listening to Acanderss confession, realized that his expectations had been correct.
Maybe Baron Fern was set up
Then, in their past life, when Julius was going to ascend to his position as the heir, the possibility of there having been organized opposition wasrge. In order to make Julius shine even more, there needed to be a scapegoat.
Im no better than a fucking ratthats all I managed to do. I cant even hold a candle to him.
Acanderss face was filled with a mixture of anger, regret, guilt, and self-loathing.
If anyone else were to see it, theyd juste off as the words of an angry man seeking vengeance, but
Thats not what he was. Allen knew what hed be capable of in the future.
Also, Allen dimly understood the reason why he was acting like that.
Cut the act. I havent spoken a word from the start. And I already told you that Im not going to kill you.
Shut it, and kill me. Or hurry up and start torturing me if thats what youd prefer.
Allen sneered and vacantly stared at him, as if he had no idea what Acanders was talking about.
Why are you being like this? You must understand by nowor do you really want me to kill you?
He was puzzled at first. But, as time passed, he began to understand Acanderss exaggerated behavior.
Hes thinking.
Did Allen reallye to catch him, or did he have something to say?
Coincidentally, Allen hade without any soldiersonly two maids. He must have decided that it wouldn''t be bad to try talking once.
Looking at him, he seems like he was expecting someone.
Having assumed that this someone wasnt Allen, Acanderss ability to conceal any feelings of shock or embarrassment in front of Allen proved his ability alone.
So, Acanders put on an act. To figure out Allens goals, to sniff out his intentions.
Even if Ide here to try to catch him, he would have been confident enough to make an escape.
Or, he wouldve tried to escape via a pre-nned route. It''s a pity that hed gathered all the people that he had. But it probably wasn''t enough to weigh his life against.
Who? Me?
He burst intoughter, as if just told a funny joke.
However, Allen, through his senses, could feel the tiny, fast-paced heartbeat.
Was this enough?
Well, then.
I cant believe Im holding a conversation with the brother of my
Baron Fern.
Acanders paused for a moment, then continued as if to say something.
Greatest foe
He is still alive.
Allen''s next words made Acanders pause.
What?
Allen met eyes with Acanderss, which had opened widely with genuine shock.
He immediately changed his expression with a sorry look on his face, but he knew it was already toote.
I know its a littlete for this, but we should talk.
As soon as Allen said those words, he, too, began to speak, having realized the undeniable truth of their situation.
Sure. Its a good thing that all you really want is a conversation, but what do you want?
Allen shook his head.
Ill exin. But, there are a few too many eyes lingering here.
Allen turned his sights towards the gangsters surrounding them, still. They were, after all, just random gangsters that Acanders had gathered to create a camouge for himself.
Inellia.
Yes, sir?
She moved.
Dont quite kill them.
At his request, as if she could barely contain herself, Inellia sprung towards the gangsters.
Mr. Acanders!
Well take care of business, just like usual!
P-please, spare m
Despite their crying out his name, Acanders showed them no regard, with eyes entirely devoid of emotion.
Is this who you really were?
At this question, Acanders replied with a little giggle:
We were neverrades, from the beginning.
After a few minutes passed, all but three had fallen. Acanders stopped Inellia from throwing them outside for a moment, and shouted loudly.
Marvin!
Allen sensed what appeared to be a homeless man who had copsed outside, getting up anding forward to enter the bar.
Yes, boss?
Take care of these poor bastards. And dont let anyonee in for a while.
On it, boss.
As he gestured for the homeless man named Marvin to head out, dozens of homeless people came in to take the fallen gangsters before disappearing in an instant.
Are those people real?
I suppose theres no need to hide it. They are."
Acanders didn''t quite believe everything Allen said. Even at this moment, he doubted whether dropping his act was the right choice.
Was I too hasty? If Id just run away before we could talk
The original n was to hear him out and ept if he offered a reasonable deal, andif notto try to escape somewhere in the process. And he was sure he could.
But
Allen was more powerful than hed expected. Even his little maid showed off moves that nobody could simply take lightly.
If Id known this would happen, I wouldve been more careful Tch.
Since Acanderss familys decline, hed been living amoner''s life, and as such, his awareness had been dulled. But he was still a noble at heart.
Everything Ive done up until this point has been a waste of time, but there''s nothing I can''t do if I collect them again.
All he had were his have-nothing men from the slums. And apart from that, he had nothing. He shouldnt have been so careless.
But I got caught up in my greed.
Acanders corrected his expression and opened his mouth:
So, what would you like to talk about?
Allen answered directly, no longer needing to beat around the bush:
Dont you want to get revenge on him?
What?
Allen said in a calm tone, uncaring of the confusion on Acanderss face.
I''m trying to kill Julius.
As if only noting the obvious.
Come with me.
Chapter 42
Chapter 42
Acanders stared at Allen like he was watching a crazy person.
You want to kill Julius?
Yes.
Allen didn''t talk about possession or regressionthey were meaningless for their purposes. Did they need to talk about the details, since they didn''t trust each other yet? Acanderss goal was to get revenge on Julius, and Allens goal was to bring Acanders under his wing.
A detailed story built trust. It still wasnt toote to do it.
Sure.
Allen calmly nodded in approval.
Ha, you know, I I thought I was the crazy onebut it turns out, the real crazy one was you.
Also, I happened to hear you were trying to figure out your fathers whereabouts
Allen blurted out his words, as if waiting to hear the response.
Is that so?
Although Acanders let out a smirk, he was actually conflicted on the inside about whether or not he could properly distinguish Allens truths from his lies.
Inellia, still remaining silent, disyed an expression of clear confusion.
Once we get back to the manor, Ill exin everything to Inellia.
He only thought about her that one time.
So, what do you think?
About what?
What do you think? Its pretty clear, isnt it?
Acanderswhod smirked at Allens questionreversed, going expressionless for just a moment.
Inellia made an ufortable face, unhappy with his sudden change.
Alright, alright, Im just yin with ya. Were gonna go try to kill your brother?
Acanders was fully suspicious of Allens words. Even though Allen kept insisting they were true, would he really havee to Acanders directly to recruit him? Acanders knew his own value.
Was he trying to use him to bait Julius?
''Itd be more realistic to say that Id be used as a tool to be used in the oing power struggle with Julius.''
Allen, feeling threatened by Juliuss recent actions, was attempting to gather together those who had a grudge against him in order to keep him in check. This, I thought, was a much more usible exnation.
''But what''s the reason behind saying such easily dissectible bullshit?''
Was there any actual reason to talk about it directly? Did he think Id be so easily deceived? Or was he really trying to just kill me?
''Whatever the reason is''
It didnt matter.
If you want to use me, I will use you too.
Even if it was a trap.
If it really were true that he was going to try to kill Julius
If I could escape this beggar-like lifestyle
And
If I can find out where Dad is
Id do it.
So, he answered with a light smirk. There were only two possible results:
That I would die.
Sure, Ill go with you.
Or he would.
For him, I could risk my lifewhich had already been ruined anyway.
Good choice, Acanders. We can talk details in Elle Round.
Whats the deadline for this?
Juste to the city within the month. Can you do that?
Of course. But, by chance
Acanders hesitated about whether it was okay to say this.
Whats the hesitation for?
There are others, too. They all hold some sort of grudge against Julius, so they wouldnt be a hindrance
Sure, bring them all. Ill also give you some information about your father at that time.
Allen replied casually, as if hed been asking about something inconsequential. But Acanders felt a little different.
I won''t just be thrown away after being used once.
The fact that Acanders took care of everyone else, too, not just himselfwho could be used for his position as a former noblemanmeant that he was looking to stay in this for the long term.
Thank you.
"You''re wee. Now that you have be my subordinate, lets get to work.
Now, was it over? Oh, right.
Allen suddenly remembered what his conversation partner had said earlier and began to speak:
You were right about before. Compared to Julius, you are less than a candle.
Yes, to him, Julius might appear that way.
In his previous life, hed inherited his position of head of the household after his father had died, but now, he fell into a situation where he had not even that.
So he could understand why he thought of himself that way inparison.
But
Theres no need for the light to be too bright.
He got up.
Sunlight streamed in through the dark interior via the small cracks in the door. Acanderss green eyes shone through the shadows that consumed the room.
An overly bright light is no different from darkness.
Like a candle.
A candle is enough to light up a dark room. Any more than that is just too much.
Acanders stared nkly at Allens back as he walked away.
Bullshit.
Acanderss bted answer rose from behind.
Yeah, whatever.
Well to each his own.
Allen responded with a smile.
Today, Allen was able to acquire talented people and those who would be his foundation.
* * *
The road to Elle Round was smooth. Neither bandits nor monsters made attempts to block their path. Thus, Allen returned home within the week.
The day passed on to the next.
After finishing his morning training session and meditation as usual, Allen headed to his private study.
There were few ces quite as quiet as his study for having confidential conversations.
Allen finished replying to Rachael and Cathleen''s letter sent from the Academy, and sent his back.
Cathleen seems to be doing a pretty good job, and Rachael hasnt changed a bit.
Allen recalled her emotional letter and looked at the magic form spread out in front of him.
Hmm, I need to keep improving my magic.
If he were to evaluate his rank, hed be about Rank 5.
His heart, which had be like a dragon''s core, was endlessly producing mana. Thus, he had no shortage of manabut his knowledge of magic wascking.
The effectiveness of ones magic could be improved by increasing ones mana reserves.
But
"That''s too inefficient."
A sorcerer umtes and studies a magic system in which he specializes in, in order to interact with the phenomenon that is mana and distort reality itself in the process.
Using that logic, A sorcerer simply uses magic.
Magic used like this is efficient. Though there has to be no excess. In other words, increasing the strength of ones magic just by adding mana is an immature solution for a sorcerer to suggest.
However, its difficult to obtain any knowledge around here.
This was Allen, whod looked for magical books for 10 years in his previous life, so he knew best.
In this ce, he couldnt expect to find any knowledge which could improve his skills now.
Instead, to improve himself, it had to be
The Academy.
He had to go there.
As he finished his thought, Allen closed his eyes.
Hed found inspiration when he brought back Linbelle and Inellia from Hibelle.
Since then, there hasnt been much progress, but
He meditated, repeatedly recalling the sensations hed felt at that time. He didn''t think itd pay off in one go.
How long had he been meditating?
Knock, knock.
* * *
* * *
He was somewhere between consciousness and ack thereof. He heard Inellias voice as he shook off the dreamy feeling.
Sir Allen, may Ie in?
Time was already up. Allen checked the hands of the clock, pointing towards the afternoons time zone, and quickly allowed her to enter the room.
Yes.
Click.
Inellia walked into the study with a nervous expression on her face.
''This isn''t her first timeing in, is it?''
What kind of scolding was she expecting?
Thats right, I have something to tell you Take a seat.
Allen sat down first on the sofa in his study before she sat cautiously across from him.
Why did you call for me, sir?
She kept turning her eyes to the side, unable to look directly at Allen''s face.
Her purple eyes were mixed with tension and determination. A beautiful appearance, mixed with fairy-like features. Her ck hair was wet, just recently washed, and the faint scent of lc drifted towards his nose.
Inellia.
Allen looked at her with an earnest expression.
Y-yes, sir?
As soon as he opened his mouth, Inellia grabbed the hem of her clothing.
''Maybe because nothing happenedst time
It might be the same this time, too.
Because the Allen that she knew was a rational person. But what ifwhat if he werent so?
Actually, Ive been trying to reassure you until now
Thank you for following me without any questions.
However, as she thought, Allen didn''t do anything.
Your expression is strange. Is there something wrong?"
Oh, nothing!
With a strange look, Allen held out a box carved with an old-fashioned wavy pattern.
''Could this be
She epted his gift with a bewildered look on her face.
Th-thank you, sir
As her expression mysteriously changed, Allen asked curiously:
Do you not like it?
Oh, no. It''s just so
Allen shook his head.
Havent you gone far above and beyond the expectations of a maid without argument and supported me so well thus far?
Chasing after people, collecting the potions buried behind mountains, tracking down and investigating people She had every right to have expressed her curiosity, but Allen called her because he wanted to reward her for following him without saying anything.
''I also want to talk to her about the chimera sorcerer and Julius.''
Inside is a spirit jade I came across the other day. Inellia, you are a fairy chimera so I figured it could be of use to you.
She didnt use spirits.
He didnt know if that was a side effect of her being a chimera, or if she just hadn''t contracted any spirits yet, but he knew that the jade could help her in some way.
And since I havent been able to talk in detail because Ive just been so busy, I wanted to take the time to talk about it.
Ah."
She let out a sigh filled with many emotions, and opened her mouth nkly.
"Then First, let''s talk about the chimera sorcerer."
Allen looked at her, seemingly moved by her own actions, and opened her mouth.
The stone sword obtained from the chimera sorcerer
She started talking about everything she knew.
About how the chimera sorcerer went out somewhere about once a month, and about how hed brought everything with him.
Even about how on the day he went out, a gloomy aura hung over the mountains.
So, thats how that was rted to the chimera sorcerer? Thats what Id thought
As certain thoughts came to Allens mind, Inellia cautiously opened her mouth.
Sir Allen, is this thest of your questions?
"Ah, yes.
Allen answered her question with a nod.
Are you curious about Julius? I should have told you earlier I apologize.
"Y-yes."
That wasn''t her intention, but she nodded her head nevertheless.
Alright, so, Julius is currently possessed by the devil.
It was necessary to tell Inellia. Unlike Acanderswith whom he hadnt yet built up credencethey had a certain level of mutual trust. And if she was going to be by his side, shed have no choice but to know something.
''Rather than letting her make strange assumptions, it''s better to tell her directly.''
Even if he didnt tell her, shed probably take care of it anywayfollowing strange orders, just like the ones from the whole ordeal with Acanders.
"Did you say the devil?
"Yes, the devil. He''s being possessed by a very terrible demon.
A demon who feels no guilt even after taking someone else''s body.
Allen spread out his senses.
Information from within a few dozen meters flooded into his brain.
No one is listening. But just in case''
A transparent skein of thread surrounded them, surrounding the room, and blocking it from the outside world.
To exin
Inellia was nervous by Allen''s cautious attitude. She could sense that the story he was going to tell wasnt going to be one to take lightly, just by taking into ount his demeanor.
Allen dramatized the story to a certain extent so that she could better understand it.
That Julius was possessed by a demon. And that Allen wanted to save his brother by defeating the demon possessing him. And that the reason Allen recruited Acanders was to establish a force to oppose him.
So, the orders given to you were all part of this n. Does that all make sense?
"Ah
She felt as if everything made sense now.
Hes pretending to act with good intentions for the world, but in reality he isnt, so we need to be careful not to be fooled by appearances.
Thus, the recap about Julius came to an end.
Is there anything else youre curious about? If not, lets go have our meal.
When Allen really looked like he was going to get up, she hesitated and opened her mouth.
S-so, is this the end? You shared these stories and gave me this thing
Yes.
Really?
He didnt know why she asked, but when Allen sent her a small nod, she put on a dejected expression.
What''s wrong?
Its nothing.
Then lets go eat. Its right about time
Alright.
When Allen began to rise from his seat, someone knocked on the door.
Knock, knock.
Its Linbelle, sir. May Ie in?
Allen returned his lower body back to its original ce and opened his mouth:
Yes,e in.
She paused as she looked at Inellia with Allen inside the room.
"Ah
Linbelle? Whats the matter?
Then she met Allen''s eyes and suddenly opened her mouth, as if justing to her senses.
Ah, that, sir, you have a guest.
"Guest?"
Yes, one Mr. Karik is looking for you, sir
Had he already seeded?
Allen replied, feeling that things were going smoothly:
Ill meet with him soon.
It was finally time to implement his n, which had been vaguely conceived since his regression.
Allen, remembering what he would need to do, rushed out the door, so he couldn''t see it.
That her expression darkened.
Chapter 43
Chapter 43
Thank you for the invitation, sir.
Karik''s face, which Allen hadnt seen in a month, was plumper than before. His face was so red that it alone could tell Allen how Karik was doing.
Its nothing. Please, take a seat.
Allen shook his head, savoring his food. It just happened to be mealtimethere was no particr intention behind it.
Ive been so busytelyanyhow, how are things going?
Yes, sir. The situation was easy to resolve because of you. Thank you."
He bowed his head towards Allen with his bright face.
''He looks more rxed than he used to.''
Allen refuted his im modestly:
What did I do? It''s all thanks to your skill, choosing the best stocks, isn''t it?
Youre too kind, sir. Hahaha."
Karik didnt forget the great benefits he received from staying in Allen''s favor. Nor did he forget that he wasnt promised a position on Allens good side.
But if you forget the favor and turn your back, youd certainly be no better than an animal, would you?
The reason why they could even have a meal together, as they were now, was because of Allens favor.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude, so I would appreciate it if you could check all of it overter.
So he hoped to maintain a good rtionship with Allen in the future.
Hell be the one to inherit his familys power.
By no means could Karik afford to lose contact with such a person. So, naturally, wouldnt there be times when Allen may need some extra help? Or times when he may want to obtain something in private.
Karik didnt quite want to hold such an integral position, though.
Just Itd be enough for him to recognize me as someone he could call if he needed anything.
Even if he were being used as a money bag, it was beneficial to have been able to make a connection with the person who would be the duke.
A duke is still a duke, even if in a little decline at the moment. Or maybe maybe Sir Allen could revive the dukedom when he takes over.
"Alright, I''ll take a look myselfter. But it seems as though youve familiarized yourself with the local table etiquette.
Table manners vary from region to region.
Kariks ent was a little different from that of the natives, so Allen tried to convince him that he had bad table manners, even if it wasnt true. Unlike his proficient table manners, Karik''s ent was a little different from the standard Reeve Kingdom ent. Allen could tell from the excess air he exhaled when pronouncing certain consonantsa characteristic from those of the neighboring Kazak Kingdom.
"Yes, I''m nning to settle down here in the future. Ive tried to prepare in advance."
"Your entit seems to have hints of Kazak, no?"
"Thats Haha."
He replied with an awkward smile.
"My father took care of me when I was young. That''s how my ent became mixed. Of course, I''m trying to fix it."
"Is that so?"
"Habits are difficult to break. Hahaha."
* * *
* * *
So, Allen continued his meal, chatting with Karik.
"Where did you go up after the Thanksgiving festival? You had permission to travel through the gates, so you had many choices, certainly.
"I went to a city down west."
"Down west Towards Garvia?"
"A little further south of GarviaBergen."
Beginning with a light atmosphere and shared greetings, their mealsted over 30 minutes, ending only when thest bite had been consumed. When the conversation came to a natural lull, Allen took his chance:
"By the way, Mr. Karik"
Karik, too, had realized that the time hade, and straightened his posture.
"Yes, sir."
"Do you remember thest thing I said?"
Allen''s tone remained the samecalm, as though asking a routine question.
But Karik felt that something had changed.
Allen altered neither hisnguage, expression, or tone; the atmosphere had shifted with but a single word.
It was a skill that his father had told him many times he must acquire in his path to find sess.
I cant even do that yet.
Karik cleared his throat and took a breath. Why had he gone to the western city in the first ce?
It was because he heard that the merchant group Sir Allen was looking for was there. If it weren''t for that, Karik would have continued en route towards Kazakfrom where his rootsy.
"Yes, of course I remember."
"Shall I expect good news?
"Yes, of course."
"Good."
The atmosphere that unnerved Karik quickly washed away as Allen nodded and smiled.
"I was getting a little bit scared. I thought you might ask me to give you more time."
Of course not, sir.
Allenughed, chatting with him in a yful tone. But Karik, feeling as though it were some sort of test or warning to him, couldn''t help but feel threatened.
"Rather, they asked to build a connection with you, sir."
"The Daike merchants?"
"Yes, it''s widespread news around those parts that the eldest son of the merchant groups leader has been cursed."
"Cursed?"
Allen asked, recalling the banshee tears stored in a corner of his study.
"Yes, because of that, Ive been buying curse-rted paraphernalia. The situation is really not good.
"Exin it in detail.
"So, rumor has it that the son of the groups leader"
Karik gulped, like he was afraid others were listening in.
"was cursed by a witch."
* * *
The Daike merchant group.
A well known and well established merchant group within the county.
Its the group that supplies leathers and herbs sourced from the Michent Mountainssurrounding the western and northern countiesthroughout the kingdom.
ording to Allens memory, theyd eventually seed in opening direct trade deals with the elves in the future, bing a powerful trading group interacting with other countries.
But he knew nothing more about them.
Naturally.
He didn''t have the time to worry about that in his previous life. At most, they met so he could borrow money or acquire magic books.
But even if he didn''t want to hear it, he had no choice but to know that the leaders son was cursed.
''Soned, leader of the Daike merchant group.''
Before his regression, Allen remembered a portrait of a young man hanging in the drawing room of Soned''s mansionwhich Allen had visited whileing for a purchase. It wasmon information that it was a portrait of Soneds son whod died of a curse. So, Allen, after visiting it several times, naturally came to know this.
Therefore, Allen nned to meet him right after his regression. Using Karik''s connections, he deliberately prepared a meeting and waited for the right time.
The banshee tears.
He took the potion, half so he could pay off the debt he owed him from his previous life, and half so he could make a connection with him through which he could carry out some ns.
I only thought as far up as Julius said he was going to Garvia, so I didnt think about this, but
The curse came even though hed defeated the dark sorcerer, making his to-be n a little simpler.
"Sir Allen, is the tea not to your liking?"
Soned asked in a cautious tone, trying not to show his nervous expression as Allen held a sip of Soneds tea in his mouth without swallowing.
Allen quickly drank the tea sitting in his mouth and replied as if nothing were strange.
"No, the tea just had such a deep vor, so I wanted to taste it for a while.
"Is that so?"
Sorned nodded in relief at Allens reply.
Allen was able to meet Soned, the Daike merchant groups leader, following Karik''s guidance. Soned had weed him with a disy of intense emotion, seemingly like he didn''t think it possible to meet with Allen so quickly.
"So, why did you want to see me?"
"I understand that you, sir, are the heir to the duke."
"That''s right.
"Additionally, you are the legitimate heir to Elle Round, the guardian of the Michent Mountains, the spokesman of all intellectuals, and the
"Cut to the chase."
Allen knew what Soned wanted.
Something to lift the curse.
Otherwise, there would be no way that a top-tier merchant would bow his head so suddenly.
"I need something to lift a curse."
At Allen''smand, Soned stopped beating around the bush and mentioned what it was that he wanted straightforwardly.
"Is it for your son, who was cursed by a witch?"
"Thats correct."
Soneds expression turned dark at Allens query. He clenched his teeth and continued:
I heard that you may be in possession of something fit to cleanse him.
Yes, I have a few ancient artifacts passed down through generations in my family.
Th-then!
Soned immediately bowed his head, entirely uncaring of his pride.
Id like to please purchase that item from you. If its priceless, then Ill use just enough to lift the curse and return it to you, sir. Ill pay the proper price.
His desperate face showed no hesitation.
Itll be just this once. Please, please help me, sir.
Hm
Allen couldnt tell if it was really Soneds paternal instincthis devotion to his childor if it was an act just to get Allens sympathy.
Thinking back to my past life, it''s probably the former, but
Allen nodded briefly as if he didnt have any qualms.
"Alright, if you were to pay a fair price, there''s no reason why we can''t make a deal."
"Then!"
"But"
!!
"Unfortunately, the duke''s things are not something I can simply trade on my own."
As Allen shook his head quietly, Soned''s face turned dark.
"W-well, then, if the duke gives his blessings"
"If he does, itll be possible. But can your son hold out until then?"
"I"
Soned, impatient to solve this issue, hadnt had the chance to think that far.
''Maybe even that, too, is part of his act.''
Allen looked deeply troubled and soon opened his mouth, like hed needed to make up his mind before doing so.
"Mr. Soned, there is still a way."
"Wh-what is it?
Soned looked up at him with hopeful eyes as Allen opened his mouth to speak:
"Inellia."
At his signal, Inellia handed him a fancy-looking box.
"Whats this?
Allen opened the box silently, revealing a potion inside emitting a hazy purple color, contained in a transparent bottle.
"It cant be.
Hoping that he was right, he carefully put the name of the leap into his mouth.
"Are those banshee tears?"
"Yes."
"It can lift the curse?
"Also correct."
When Allen nodded, Soned began to speak with an urgent look:
Sir, please let me buy that potion. I''ll pay you as much as you want. So, please
Allen shook his head quietly.
How could Soned, a sessful merchant, not know the meaning of Allen''s actions? He gave the answer that Allen wouldve seemed to have been after without dy.
"No matter how much its true value is, Ill pay twice that. If even that is not enough, then just half a bottle, no, even one sip is enough, so, please
Banshee tears were powerful, able to lift almost any curse. Even one sip was, typically, enough.
Curses, because of their rarity and high speed of mortality of their victims, were dangerous. Because of this, Soned wouldve spent a huge amount of money to find something to lift the curse afflicting his son, no matter the cost.
Allen did not respond to Soned''s answer as if dissatisfied. Soned clenched his teeth and prepared himself to raise his reward further.
"Im truly moved by your actions, sir, of being willing to possibly take a loss for me. It must have been a difficult decision, so, to be helpful, perhaps I could award a small monthly stipend
When Allen once again failed to reply, Soned cursed inside.
''Who the hell does this man think he is!
But what else could he do? Their roles in the situation were clear. He was forced to make a decision.
"I would like to thank you for your deep determination to help my son. Perhaps I could offer you a share of the Daike merchant group
Allen shook his head once more, making his opponent go crazy.
The items price in full, a pick of any of Soneds valuable treasures, monthly offerings, and even a share of his merchant group?
What more could Allen even want!
Soned''s body trembled at Allen''s high-handedness. If it werent for the sake of his son''s life, he would have instantly jumped from his seat out of shame.
Rumor had it that Allen, alone, had put a stop to the sinister ns of thievesfearing theyd ruin the harvest festival, though Soned wasnt the kind to give too much credibility to rumors.
How could that same person be so greedy?
Allen smiled faintly, like he knew what it was that Soned was thinking, and began to answer a beatte.
Ill pledge my loyalty to you and your family for generations
"I''ll just give it to you."
toe Excuse me?
Allen, smiling as if hed seen something funny, replied to his stunned partner.
"How could I put a price on saving a person''s life?"
"Then will you ept a gift or a share in
"I don''t need it."
Allen''s answer left him speechless for a moment.
Its for my own benefit, and that of my public image.
If Allen decided to be greedy here, his reputation would only fallwhich wouldnt be good. The reason behind his attitude so far was simple:
''To bring the merchant group under me in the future.''
Would Soned have epted if Allen asked him toe under him from the beginning? Allen was lucky that Soned hadnt begun cussing at him for ying around. But, by showing good intention, hell begin to admire Allenand, perhaps, Soned would give him his consideration again.
Thats the kind of person Soned is.
If not, how many times would Allenwhod been deprived of his position of sessorbe willing to lend it to Soned thinking that he would be likely to repay Allen the money?
Too many times to count.
Even if I had confidence that I could get it from my family
Allen may not have been a merchant, and may have been naive, but he knew how loyalty was to be kept.
That''s why Allen waited for Soned to raise the offer before showing good faith when he could no longer put up with it.
''To bring him under me.''
It was more profitable to earn a mans trust paid for with a moment''s patience, than to earn a bit of gold paid for with a moment''s greed.
"How could I be greedy with a father simply trying to save his son from a curse?"
"Sir."
Soned was ashamed of himself for having momentarily misunderstood Allen.
Inellia and Linbelle, whod been quietly standing behind Allen, nodded proudlyand Ves, hanging on Allen''s waist, shed a tear in agreement.
"Thank you so, so much. And also I''ll still pay you a proper pricebecause I want to.
"No, I couldn''t possibly."
"Then please choose any item you want from the merchant groups vaults. Anything youd like."
When Allen dyed answering, Soned asked again:
"I couldnt ept it without giving anything in turn."
"Then Ill oblige."
He bowed his head with an emotional face.
''There''s something he could help me with personally,
With his intuition, developed over decades, he could feel that he wanted something from him.
''But
He thought itd be good to maintain a good rtionship with the young lord, or at least, to have a rtionship closer than before.
Soned stopped thinking and quickly opened his mouth, wondering if Allen needed anything else.
"Is there anything else you need, sir?"
"No, I don''t Oh, yes, there is one thing."
"What is it?
As Soned replied in a tone that seemed to expect anything, Allen answered:
"Could I personally inspect the curse that your son has been afflicted by? I, too, practice magic, so Id like to check it out.
Soned thought out the intention behind his words.
What exactly does Sir Allen want?
His seemingly considerate attitude wasnt overly so. It couldn''t be regarded as a one-sided favor. But there was no possible reason for him to be treating Soned so well.
But regardless of theplex thinking going on in his mind, Soned looked back at Allen, who, with the same practiced smile, replied with an air of affability on his face:
"Who knows, maybe I could be of a little help?
Chapter 44
Chapter 44
Sir, theres no need to take a direct look at him. The curse could spread, couldnt it?
Soned said to Allen with an ufortable expression.
What would he do if the curse were to spread to Allen? The merchant groups name would be tarnished were anything to happen, regardless of any favors Allen and Soned may have exchanged.
"I appreciate your generosity, sir. However, hell be treated with the potion, so you don''t need to look at it yourself."
"No, something simr could happen again. Shouldn''t I check it out for that sake?"
"Oh, Sir Allen!"
Karik, whod only just entered the room, was surprised by the difference between the merchant group leaders reactionspared to what hed expected, but Karik nodded after hearing the tail end of their story.
It seems that their conversation went well.
He knew that Allen had wanted to arrange a meeting with Soned, but Karik had still felt a little wrong about it knowing that itd urred after only having been associates for a few days.
When he saw Soned''s greatly improved expression, though, Karik felt proud of himself for no reason.
"Sir Allen, did your conversation go well?
"Yes, I was lucky. I was lucky to have taken the banshee tears with me just in case after having heard about Mr. Soneds son.
"Are those the banshee tears?"
As Karik turned his head, Soned carefully presented to him the purple potion.
"This is a precious item hard toe by in any territory
Karik looked at Allen with a startled face.
Banshee tears werent too difficult to manufacture, but hard toe by.
Even if sessfully made and acquired, it was a rare item, generally only sold and purchased between high-ranking nobles or the royal family at a hefty price.
Among curse-healing tools, nothing held a candle to banshee tears.
Allen smiled like his favor wasnt of note.
"People have different values."
Just as the values of ves andmoners were different, so were the values ofmoners and nobles. If youpared the value of a potion purchased by a merchant''s son and one by a high-ranking aristocrat for arge amount of money, of course, the value of thetter would be higher.
However
"Personally, I simply judged that the favor I received from Mr. Soned was of a higher value than the potion he received in return.
"I You speak far too kindly."
Although Soned thanked him for his kindness, he could not hide his bitter feelings.
This is a farrger debt.
Even though his son was suffering from the curse, he hated himself for calcting the value of their exchangeevaluating the price of his partners good will with his merchants mind.
"That''s all."
Allen didnt say that men were inherently equal, or that all life was worth something. It wouldnt mean anything; itd just be words. He was just invested because Soned''s future value would be more than worth the exchange of the potion.
I''ll pay back the debts I owe from my past life.
He also needed to search for the devil-contracting tomes that hed found in his past life in order to reduce Julius''s influence.
''You have to lose some to win some.
This was his one and only chance.
This period of time when Julius would be gone.
A period of time in which he could prepare for the future without disturbing anyone. So, Allen, guided by Soned, arrived at the room wherein Soneds son rested.
Is this it?
"Yes, were here."
Soned angled himself to enter the room first. Nothing strange had yet urred, but wouldnt there be the possibility that the curse could cause a sudden explosion?
"I''ll go first, and then you, sir, can
However, as soon as he opened his mouth, the door behind him opened, cutting him off.
Squeak.
"S-sir!"
Its alright. We should still be fine to cure his curse from here. Allen stepped inside, moving ahead of Soned who was dissuading him from the side.
It was silent inside.
Allen went forward,ing to the bed in the center of the room.
* * *
* * *
''Hes so young.''
He mustve been around fifteen, but hisplexion had dulled because of the curse, and his skinny bodyshowing his skeletonmade him look a few years younger than his true age. Though on the surface, you couldnt tell if this change was a result of a curse or disease.
Itd have been good if you only looked like this because of an illness, but
That wasnt the case.
Allen immediately spread out a sensing range. The spread out widely across the room and checked around Soneds childs body.
Allen sent out a thread to cling to the sons body. Allen focused and felt the childs bodily health gradually deteriorating, as if it were being sucked away. For the moment, the son was managing to maintain a somewhat liveable state thanks to all of the measures taken by his father, but Allen wasnt sure how much longer itd be sufficient.
His life force is being drained somewhere.
But all of the dark sorcerers were supposed to have been taken down.
Julius''s trip to Garviawhich had urred in their past liveshadnt taken ce, so Allen could only have taken a guessbut he was certain when he witnessed, firsthand, the condition of Soneds son:
They werent properly dealt with.
Running through his ncrafted ording to the current situation that hed predictedAllen felt a tinge of bitterness knowing that he wasn''t able to prevent the situation at hand.
"Sir Allen!"
"A-are you alright? Is there something wrong?
Linbelle and Soned, following close behind, rushed to see if something had happened, as Allen stood quietly near the bed.
"No, I just checked the state of the curse for a moment."
"O-oh, then
Soned looked at Allen with eyes filled with anticipation. Allen nodded like Soned had the right idea.
"The curse is strong, but not enough to subvert the banshee tears."
If thats your verdict, sir, then!
Soned.
Allen paused for a moment.
So, then, does that mean you can help him?
Even just one sip should be enough for it to expel the curse, right?
Hed been worried at firstabout how hed use what was left of the potion.
I could have it stored for future use, or perhaps I could give it to another afflicted kid?
Maybe if he were to do that, Allen would try to find something else and not be able to, when it came time that hed actually need something to deal with a curse in the future.
If I dont say that Ill use it to heal some other person out of goodwill, its not like theyre going to ask me what else Im going to do with it.
Until Allen arrived at that thought
that terrible stench lingered in his nose.
That inhuman smell. The image of those utterly lifeless surroundingsbined with that stench that gued him.
Though could I really look away from another in need?
If he were to, how would he be at all different from his previous life? Was Allens desire for revenge so great that it should trump someone elses salvation?
So, then
My people muste first beforeparing the value of their lives.
So, it would be just enough to save the merchant group leaders son, in that case.
Even if someone were to use what was left of the potion, it wouldnt be enough to fully eradicate the presence of most curses. But
Couldnt they at least give it a shot?
I think that your son, the victim, should take enough for himselfenough for one person.
I yes, alright.
That way, hed be fully cured of his curse before the end of the month.
There''s no way to know just how many other victims there may be. And no way to know how many others may have already died, either. No, it is surely far toote. The transmission period of this particr curse has likely already passed, but
If Julius were to return homeif the time came that that young elf prodigy had run away into the Heavenly Forest
This situation will resolve itself.
At the very least, Id like to hope that we could try to help someone else.
Allen pleaded to Soned with a sad look on his face.
For the people.
For the poor people afflicted by this terrible curse.
And
Theyre all under my care, arent they?
For himself.
Soned, at a loss after hearing Allens answer, lowered his head, closed his eyes, and responded:
We should do as you saidno, I implore you to carry out your ns as you said, sir.
Thank you.
Allen gave his practiced smile as always.
That smile that suggested that not a single lie had been told.
* * *
And thus, a single sip was rushed to the merchant leaders son to drink.
Upon downing that single sip, its effectiveness was made immediately apparent.
Cough, cough.
Erik! Erik! Are you okay?!
D-dad? Whats going on
Are you alright? Does anything hurt?
Perhaps
As Allen looked over his patient once more, it was as though he could feel that the curse had beenrgely weakened, though stillid partially dormant within Eriks body.
If theres only this much of it left and he were to rest for another few weeks, the rest of it should naturally work itself out of his system.
Together, Soned and Erikwho hadnt opened his eyes in quite a long timeboth lowered their heads to Allen.
Thank you, sir.
Thank you so much for helping me.
It was no trouble at all. I was afraid that it mightve been toote already.
As Allen gave a bitter smile and epted their gratitude, Soned waved his own hand, brushing it off.
No, what are you saying! Its all thanks to you, sir, that
Thank you.
Allen waited for the father/son conversation to end before following Soned back to the drawing room.
So, you understand the degree to which his health has improved.
Allen sat down and began their conversation.
So when did he first contract the curse? Because ording to my understanding, this curse came from a dark sorcerer which Julius was supposed to have put to rest.
So, about that
Would it be okay if I tried to exin all of this?
Karik, after having been cut off by Soned, readily epted.
Youve been around here longer than I, so, surely, youd know better. Its alright.
Thank you. So, the part that you, sir, are curious about is just thata part of the whole story. Youre curious about why, despite Sir Juliuss deration that the dark sorcerers had been taken care of, their curses were spreading.
Soned spoke in a calm tone. It seemed that at the improvement of his sons condition his selfposure had recovered to match its natural state.
If I were toe to a conclusion from that, it could be correct to say that the curse would have died off after the dark magicians were subdued. But the curses clearly did not disappear entirely.
A memory from the past came to Allens mind.
A memory, set to ur about one month from now, about a disaster.
A memory of a disaster resolved by Julius.
A more precise estimate would say it was likely around the end of the Thanksgiving festival.
Soneds story was a short one.
Julius had subdued the dark sorcerers in his vicinity in Garvia, and, from there, the curse had stopped being produced. Therefore, it must have started to spread again a few days prior. At first, Soned couldn''t bring himself to believe that rumorthat the curses were still circting, despite their creators having been taken outbut with a child afflicted by said curse, he had no choice but to believe that.
Or, at least, that was the story hewith an unknowing look and a smile on his faceimparted to Allen.
I didnt mean to simply reiterate such a widespread rumor.
Allen remained silent.
But on the inside, he was reviewing his ns that hede up with, starting from the moment hed obtained the banshee tears at a rapid pace.
At the beginning, I thought that itd be such a simple n to execute, but
He restructured his ns ording to the fact that Julius was supposed to have subdued the dark sorcerers and the curse sourced from those same southwestern territories.
I can use this.
Allen had already begun establishing a good rapport between him and Soned from saving Erik.
With Soneds help, Allen could aid others also afflicted by the curse and get rid of the witch who sourced it. And, perhaps, he could also discredit Juliuss reputation, while propping himself up as a friend of the people.
I don''t think Soned has any animosity toward Julius yet.
Just because the curse didn''t go away didnt necessarily mean that Julius failed to subdue the dark sorcerer.
But what if Allen resolved that which Julius couldn''tpletely settle by himself?
Hell have no choice but topare us two.
That was just the way that people were.
"Thank you, again, for your willingness to donate so much of your potion to us."
Soned bowed his head once again. As he collected himself, he returned to his logical, experienced merchant mindset.
"Since youve decided to help others, I will dly follow whatever decision you make, sir."
"I-I''ll help you, too, sir!"
Soned vaguely guessed Allen''s intention and seemed to be trying to hitchhike ordingly, but Karikstill but a foolish merchantwas swept away by the atmosphere and tried to agree as well.
"Well, then I shall give you instructions.
"Whatever you wish, sir."
"Yes, whatever you say, sir."
Allen took out the remaining potion and held it out to them.
"First of all, call in the nearby alchemists to dilute this potiononly to the extent that the effect of the potion remains usable. And make sure that the alchemist doesnt try to sneak away with any."
Soned epted the potion and Allen continued:
"And ask for a priest in my name."
Priests were hard toe by, but if they searched the city, theyd be sure toe across at least one.
"And also, grab some herbs to aid the recovery of those affected by the curse."
"So, you mean"
Allen nodded, affirming his suspicions.
"I will take care of it.
The Daike merchant group was the group that controlled the trading of herbs, so their contribution would be sufficient.
"Inellia and Linbelle will stay here for a few days."
There was no way Soned wouldnt understand what Allen was saying. Soned affirmed:
"The trade will be done fairly."
Now that thats all been taken care of
It was time to kill a witch and spread some rumors.
Upon hearing Allen''s various requests, Soned closed his eyesseemingly in thought for a momentand then opened his mouth:
"Your kindness will impress many people. However, this will make it difficult to dissolve the curse remaining with other victims."
"I suppose so."
Allen himself wasnt quite sure whether or not the measures that hed listed off would be enough to resolve everything.
It''s just for show.
It was justying the groundwork to support the rumors that would spreadter.
To show that he took responsibility and did the best he could.
To show that that was how he was able to dispose of the curse.
To show that Allen was, obviously, much more outstanding of a person than Julius.
"Then what about you, sir?"
Allen slowly rose from his seat upon hearing Soneds question.
In any case, curses be vastly weaker when the caster dies.
To just kill her should be enough to resolve the whole ordeal.
"Well, of course"
So
"Im going to kill the caster."
Hed hunt down the witch.
Chapter 45
Chapter 45
Before Allen left, he called Inellia aside to give her a few orders.
"This is important so, please, be extra careful."
"Leave it to me, sir."
"Yes, I will."
She was told, in secret, to begin spreading rumors to tarnish Julius''s reputationso that the thought of Allen being better than Julius would be in the public consciousness.
So, then, a certain rumor would suggest that the young master Allen essentially came to dispose of a certain deadly curse, and, additionally, spent loads of his own money to treat those impacted by ita rumor that would actually be true but also cleverly makes aparison between Allen and Julius.
''It''s only a small piece of the puzzle now, but oncepounded with others like it
It would be a great force to be reckoned with.
So, for the sake of that endeavor, Inellia would need to stay here.
I cante with you, sir?
"Sir Allen made himself clear, Linbelle. But then again
Inellia raised her hand with stern eyes, Linbelle said with an impatient look:
Sir, as you sawst time, I won''t be a burden. You said I was talented. So this time
Allen pondered her request for a moment and let his senses go to work.
Are her muscles already developed? Her posture is stable, and her bnce is, too, but
She didnt have prana yet.
As he dug deeper with his sensory power, he looked around and felt a red swollen area, indicative of remaining muscle pain.
Shes trained too hard. That''s a new one, too. If she didn''t have this, I would have thought about taking her.
He thought that if he was confident enough, he could protect her during their battle with the witch.
But there was no need to take her with him and then force her body back via a potion.
Allen stepped in between the mother and daughters tense atmosphere and began to speak:
"Im leaving you here because I had to ask you to do something else. But I''ll definitely take you next time. Stay here this time, though."
What?
Linbelle nodded with a vacant look. As Inelliaforted her daughter, Allen, too, nodded.
Ill keep Linbelle here with me. I wish you safe travels.
Even if I must be a porter.
She began to whisper, but Inelia quieted her before Allen could answer.
Swat!
"Don''t be ridiculous, Linbelle."
Ack, my head! Have a safe trip, sir."
I will.
Allen smiled briefly and approached Soned, who was waiting for him.
''Have I gotten too close to them?''
He couldnt see the face she was making, but it was clear to him that Linbelle was joking.
They shouldnt have been talking back to him in front of someone else, even if meant as a joke. He decided to warn her about itter.
Soned gave Allen a map of the witch''s estimated whereabouts and looked at him with serious eyes.
"Sir Allen, I''d like to invite you to dinner after resolving this all.
"An invitation to dinner, you say? I look forward to it."
Allen gave a light smile and epted the invitation.
"You really dont need any form of mercenary support?"
"Numbers against a witch are meaningless. A coachman to lead the carriage will be enough.
"Then I wish you good luck."
"Likewise to you. Well, I''ll see you in a few days.
Soned sighed with relief and looked back at the carriage as it moved away.
What could it be that Sir Allen wants?
As Soned closed his mouth quietly, Karikwho was together with Soned seeing Allen offopened his.
"I truly respect Sir Allen for going to such lengths for his people."
"Did you notice anything from that conversation just now?"
"What? Then"
Soned sighed as he looked at the young merchant, still foolish and inexperienced. Some younger merchants were talented, and others were still immature.
"Ah, no, I shouldve told you, too.
"What are you trying to say?"
Soned opened his mouth, looking at the carriage, now only visible as a dot at its distance.
"Do you know about the Reinhart familysdy of the house? Or
He asked as he blocked out the sunlight.
"Do you know anything about the Lupinus family?"
* * *
"Sir, this is the fifth ce marked on the map."
"Let''s check it out for a moment."
"Y-yes, sir."
The coachman trembled, looking at the deep ravine in front of him with fear on his face. Dark-green moss and shadows surrounded the ravine.
I can feel traces of dark magic around. Was there some sort of massacre here in the past?
Well, it didn''t matter.
Allen looked in every nook and cranny, spreading out his sensesfrom caves in the corner of the ravine to its base, covered in darkness. For a while, he searched the ravine so quickly that the information didnt even properly reach his head, but his findings were disappointing.
"Not here either.
Zombies may have naturally urred here after a few more years, but not yet. Allen opened the map again to check over it.
11 ces left, with five already checked. And the time we have left is
Two weeks at most.
Within that time frame, he had to kill the witch.
I cant buy any more time than that.
Including the time to clean up and return, thered only be two weeks to get it all done. If he didnt kill the witch during that time, he wouldnt make it before Julius''s arrival.
I cant get to all of the areas marked on the map.
Three days had already passed looking at five spots. It was even more of a waste of time to wait around here, looking at the spots listed on the map.
I have to use a different method. To look in other ces. Wait
"Ah."
Allen noted his stupidity and immediately withdrew a bead. A gray bead with blended-in white spots.
[Heavens Eye].
One of the five Wonders of the First Warrior found in the family''s trove.
I forgot about it, since I havent used it yet''
But when he thought about it, there was nothing more suitable than the bead at that moment.
What a fool.
When he first took it out of the trove, he thought itd be a good idea to take a look at it, but after having gone through his spar with Julius, having found the potion in the mountains, and having dealt with the white book, too, he decided to store it for future use.
Using it was easy. That information was as widespread as the knowledge of the existence of the Wonders themselves. Plus, he saw Julius use it in his previous life.
Allen promptly grabbed the bead and cleared his mind. The bead quickly began to emanate a suction power, sucking his mind into the bead.
Am I in the sky?
He hurriedly woke up and looked down, seeing himself standing below him with closed eyes.
Is this the Wonders power?
He had no idea what its purpose was meant to be.
Allenwho looked around at his surroundings for a whilehurriedly returned to concentrating as the white parts of the bead began to turn gray.
The location of the witch spreading the curse.
As soon as he thought about it, hundreds of ces around the world simultaneously scrambled into his head.
It was crazy.
Allen hurriedly reduced the range of his sensing, which was causing a terrible headachemuch more severe than normal.
The search suggests the western territories of the Kingdom of Liber.
Even when he tried to reduce the scope of his search, more than 10 ces popted his mind at the same time.
''Simr things are happening throughout the kingdom?
Allen wanted to continue his search, but as the white parts of the bead were disappearing at a rapid pace, he had no choice but to give up his search.
Just as I thought could this all be the fault of Estedors dark sorcerers?
Hed already guessed it from his private meeting with Inellia, but they were the only ones whod try to carry out such crazy ns. Allen already knew of three serious acts that they wouldmit in the futurethey were all rted to Julius, too.
Allen realized he had no more time and narrowed his sensing range down again. After reducing the scale of his sensing to only the Reinhart territories, only two ces remained. And once he narrowed his scope to the west
''I found it.''
Nearby the western city of Bergen, a three-day-long trip from the city, an unnamed forest.
In one vision that came to his mind, an old witch covered in fresh blood sat like an old tree in the center of a magic square.
She gazed into the very space from which he watched her.
"It''s a witch."
She lifted her hand as if she knew something was going on.
Seeing this, Allen quietly whispered:
Clocks ticking.
!
In the exact moment that all the white parts of the beads turned gray, Allen''s consciousness immediately returned to his body.
"Ahh AAAAAAAAHHHHHH!"
As Allen stood still, the coachmanwho had been anxiously approaching Allens bodyfell backwards when Allen''s eyes snapped open.
"How long has it been?
Wh-what?
"How long has it been since I closed my eyes?
"Well, it''s"
Allen waited calmly for his answer.
The coachman stuttered, counted his fingers, looked up at the sky, and replied in an unsure tone.
"Maybe about five minutes?"
"Five minutes"
There probably wasnt any discrepancy in time.
And if that were the case, it meant that the time to activate the power of the Wonder wasnt long.
"Thank you. Then let''s go to the next ce."
"Yes, the next destination on the map is
"No, the ce we''re headed for is
Allen smiled coolly, recalling the witch''s surprised expression.
"A forest located three days from Bergen. Were heading there."
* * *
"Miss Inellia, is there anything wrong?"
"No, thanks to you, I''m doing well."
"That''s good to hear. Also, as Sir Allen asked, if there''s anything I can do for you, please tell me."
"I see. Thank you."
"Alright, then"
Click.
* * *
* * *
Shortly after Soneds assigned maid had finished greeting her and left the room, Linbelle, whod been sitting modestly next to her, asked with an uneasy expression:
"Mom, am I useless?"
It had already been three days since Sir Allen had left. In the meantime, all Inellia and Linbelle did was talk to Soneed, whod only ask if anything was wrong.
Contrary to Allens promise that hed give her something to do, she had nothing but to wait in the room provided for them.
Linbelle chewed her lips, repeatedly grabbing and letting go of her clothespulsively.
"Didnt Sir Allen not take me because Im useless?"
For the first time, she admired his power.
She realized the absurdity of having no powerthat when you had no power, things didnt turn out in your favor.
So
"Why? Why can''t I use prana? Huh, Mom?"
She tried to live up to Sir Allens expectations after hed given her a chance out of goodwill.
She tried to reward that kind-hearted goodwill by overdoing it to an arguably excessive degree.
"The truth is, I''m nothing special, right? Mom, you''re a fairy So why, why, why?
She wanted to repay his trusthis affirmations saying that she wasnt a weed stranded by the side of the road, but a white blooming flower on a cliff.
"But why, why am I? Why? Youre a fairy, so Please. Please, can''t you answer me?"
He didnt doubt that Linbelle possessed special abilities, but she herself couldn''t believe it.
His expectations, which shed joyfully epted, were now overwhelming.
"Mom, am I really useless?
"No, you are absolutely not, Linbelle."
Inellia quickly pulled her into her arms, refuting her ims.
"It isnt true, LinbelleI know that for a fact. You can do it. It''s just a little hard right now.
"Really? Youre sure? Youre not just saying that?"
"No, of course not."
Inellia was heartbroken.
Linbelle had never been like this before. She was once naive, cute, and yful. Inellia couldnt believe that such a child could copse on her own.
If it''s this hard
She opened her eyes resolutely and whispered in a friendly tone.
"Then what if we stop?"
!
Inellia patted her on the back, and continued, in a faint voice:
"Thesest few months I think you''ve had a good experience, so do you want to go back to our old life? I will hunt; you will forage for herbs."
They lived without worries. Nothing too wrong ever urred. At worst, if they sometimes didnt have enough firewood, they could just sleep close to each other.
If hunting went well, theyd spend the night cooking with happy faces, and if the hunt was a failure, theyd make her favorite mushroom stew.
"Do you want to go back to our monotonous, but peaceful, life?"
Linbelle remained silent for a while, then replied in a small voice:
"No I don''t want to."
"Why not? You said that it was too hard."
Inellia asked softly, without a fuss.
"I don''t want to."
"Why?"
Linbelle remembered the reason why shed put in so much effort.
Although she was now struggling with Allen''s expectations, it was simultaneously the foundational cause of her pursuit of strength.
"I don''t want to live like that anymore.
The sight of her mother being kidnapped because of her weakness still cut so deep that it often appeared in her nightmares.
"Alright, but tell me if you ever want to give up. Im always on your side."
Inellia moved Linbelle to the bedroom andid on the bed together with her.
"Youll feel a little better if you take a nap. Got it?"
"Okay."
Linbelle mustve been mentally exhausted, quickly letting out an even breath and promptly falling asleep.
Inellia sighed, feeling relieved, and, with a serious look, she recalled what Allen had asked.
"Before that, hold on a second
She closed her eyes.
As she concentrated, a figure of a blueish girl appeared around her as the wind blew.
"Sylphi."
Hahaha!
"Shh!"
What?
"My daughter is sleeping. Could you keep it down?
As Inellia stroked her daughters head and made her request, Sylphi nodded gently and clung to her cheek.
"Sylphi, would you make it quieter here?
Sylphi nodded immediately, taking the shape of the wind and circling around the two of them, enclosing them away from the outside.
"I''ll be out for a bit, so stay like that for a while, please."
Inellia rose carefully from bed, feeling the wind patting her as if it understood.
She lowered her daughters sleeping head onto the bed.
Inellia carefully returned to her true fairy forma beautiful gray-skinned fairy, with 14 pairs of wings, appeared.
"I''m sorry, Linbelle. I want to stay with you, but I''ll be right back."
She apologized to the sleeping girl and secretly used her powers.
It was the fairies'' ability to transform into other creatures. Inellias body melted into shadows in an instant. She quickly slipped out of the door and disappeared.
To carry out Sir Allens orders.
As soon as Inellia disappeared, Linbelle''s purple eyes opened. Her eyes turned to the door where Inellia had disappeared.
"Liar."
Linbelle shrugged off the ugly feelings that spread in her heart with empty eyes.
"I was right."
She quickly covered her face with a pillow.
So she couldn''t see what kind of expression she would have.
Truly.
* * *
In the following days, Allen''s name began to circte quietly under the surface of the city.
With an intent behind it.
Chapter 46
Chapter 46
REAPER SCANS
Only three days after leaving the ravine, Allen arrived at the forest hed located the witch to be in.
We we have arrived, sir.
The coachmanwho hadnt made a single stopappeared tired of the nonstop driving. The frame of the carriage had slightly bent and was covered by scratches everywhere.
Ill go alone. If a day passes and I don''te out, go ahead and return to the city.
The coachman hid behind a distant rock with a frightened look on his face, as though he could feel that the witch was here.
Y-yes, sir.
Allen smiled briefly at him before looking at the dim forest ahead of him.
Did he say that theres no name for the forest? I mean, I guess there are no herbs or mushrooms or anything like that. It is just another forest, like any other
Allen thought of the questions hed asked about the forest while still in the carriage.
He wasnt going to allow anyone else to go into this forest anymore.
Its not like there arent any other forests around here, so people should be able to stay away from here.
The word witch, alone, was ominous enough. That people would shy away should be the natural result.
As though she were displeased with simply looking at the forest as Allen had been, Veswho waited by Allen''s waistlinemurmured:
Hey, didnt you say were almost outta time? Aren''t we gonna go?
No, I need to check this out for a moment.
Allen squinted and stared within the forest. His senses rushed out and headed towards the depths of the forest, but Allen couldn''t feel anything there.
Almost as if there werent a witch.
Could this be a trap?
Hed stretched his senses out into the forest the second he stepped out of the carriage, but hed been thwarted by the trap that the witch had likely prepared to counter him and hadnt been able to find a thing.
Thisll be my first time fighting a real witch.
Allens heart beat slightly quicker than usual. Hed never battled a witch before, not even in his previous life.
Whats wrong? Scared? Earlier, you struck a pose and proimed, Witch, I''ming for you!
Who said that?
Allen smirked and grabbed Ves''s handle.
It was a new feeling, chasing the witch and destroying the source of the curse that ate away at his people. It was something that Julius had done in his previous life. Allen just had a strange feeling about doing the same thing himself.
He narrowed his sensing range to just his immediate surroundings and stepped forward. The old leaves rustled and crumbled at his paceneither slow nor fast. The moment he took another step
Step.
Oh.
his surroundings changed.
But Allen wasnt taken aback.
The moment before thendscape around him changed, he had sent out a thread and lowered his posture.
Even without granting us a proper greeting, I''m sure she knows we''re here.
Who knows if she''s watching in secret and making preparations?
That''s funny.
Allen moved without lowering his guard.
The forest was quiet. Submerged in silenceabsent even the buzzing of insectsit was reminiscent of his time at the Spring of Spirits. However, unlike that forest filled with vitality, this one was gloomy, as if fully deprived of life.
A bleak wind blew across the barren path.
There were no living creatures in the dead forest.
Even after the witch dies, thisnd will remain distorted.
As he continued on to the center of the forest, where the witch was meant to be, Allen opened his mouth.
Do you know anything about witches?
Hm not really? Ive never seen one directly, so I dont really know anything.
They''re crafty buggers. They ruin peoplecast the curses that are going around now. You really dont know anything?
I knew maybe a thing or two like that?
I thought so.
Allen deliberately acted as if he were showing gaps in his defense during his conversation with Ves, yet nobody attacked.
Once theyd reached the center of the forest without any trouble, Allen realized the strangeness of the situation.
Why is no one attacking?
Huh, I don''t know. Maybe she ran away?
Hed thought that monsters, zombies, or, at least, her servants would try to attack him.
Allen picked up his pace. Something was off. Had she not prepared anything? It was weird, but it didn''t make sense to run away now. It''d be better to set a trap of his own, instead
Was the forest always this big?
What?
Allen stopped walking.
What?
Ah, I didnt mean to kick you. Are you alright?
No, not that. What did you say before?
Was the forest always this big?
Good catch.
Allen bit his lip and kicked the ground, as if he realized something.
Violent steps smashed trees and rocks, blowing dust away. Surprised by his sudden actions, Ves cried:
What are you doing?! What if someone attacks you!
At one point, after the strong giants body had advanced through the forest, tearing down everything in its path, Allen stopped.
Arent sorcerers supposed to be rational people?!
Take a look around.
What do you mean, Look around! Youre just going to destroy it all Huh?]
Ves, whod been nagging him as much as possible, suddenly stopped.
We shouldve already left the forest at this pace, but what about the surroundings?
There was nothing different about it, yet Allen never made a fuss. The broken tree had returned to its original ce, and the smashed rock remained intact, as if nothing had ever happened to it.
Huh? Huh? Whats going on?
From Allen''s hand, she looked around several times and said in a puzzled tone:
Is this a hallucination? No, it cant be.
To be precise, it''s a barrierposed of an illusion.
Allen frowneda rare sight.
I should have known from the moment you came to that conclusion, but I was careless.
He had simply let it go with a vague eptance that, of course, a forest housing a witch would feel so strange. The fact that the Spring of Spirits had a simr appearance helped sell the forests appearance to Allen.
Would it have been wiser to have avoided the barrier and looked for her in a different way?
Allen thought coldly.
What are you going to do, then? Is there a way to break out of the barrier?
Ves asked in a rather serious tone. Allen slowly thought through his viable options.
Reverse calcting the barrier was always impossible.
He only knew the basics of the barrier system, so it was out of the question.
Then, is there no other choice but to break down the entire space where the barrier is?
As they had moved away from the entrance of the forest, theyd missed their opportunity to break the barrier down at its edgethe easiest location to do so.
So, then, what?
Ill open a gap.
There were direct and indirect points of contact between the barrier and spatial systems. Although he may not have been quite as efficient as a sorcerer skilled in the barrier system, itd be possible for him to withdraw his own body.
This method was the most feasible because itd be almost impossible to find the central axis of the barrier, the only other ce where they could try to destroy it.
Allen quickly pulled together the threads scattered around him and pulsed out countless small shock waves. The waves vibrated through the space to search for a crack in the barrier.
A barrier this huge cannot be perfect.
If he could find even one small weakness, he could open a gap.
Allen''s hand tapped sound in the air busily, like it was searching for something. The barriers axis wasnt over here. If you twisted this little wheel over here, then
Got it.
Allens countless skeins of thread pierced into a single point in the air and began to twist themselves about each other. He felt something being forced open.
* * *
* * *
The amount of mana consumed by this was unusual.
Tsk, should I have studied barriers, too?
Creeeeaaaaak
Just when he thought he could escape safely if he had just a little time.
Hurry, Look over there!
Ves, whod been quiet to avoid distracting Allen, suddenly yelled.
Allen''s eyes looked at where Ves had shouted for him to.
Groan.
Shriek!
Gurgle.
Skeletons, ghouls, zombies, banshees, and other monsters.
Were they real? Or were they another fantasy? Either way, Allen and Ves really were inside the barrier.
Allen took a stance with a smile on his face.
"You were right, Ves."
Ahaha, really, now?
Allen red at her, and Ves hurriedly closed her mouth and flew into Allen''s hand.
"Dont speak so carelessly next time."
Yes.
As Allen swung, his threads weaved to form dozens of needles, flying toward the bodies.
I hope we can get this all done with today.
Bang!
A wave of bodies approached.
* * *
Allen''s sword struck down onto headless rusty armor. With a rattling sound, the figure turned into a pile of scrap metal split in half.
But that wasn''t the end.
As if filling the gap left by the now-halved ghoul, a zombie with cracked, rotten skin pushed its way into his face. But as soon as he shook his fist, its head exploded, soaking the air with rotten brain juices.
How many were left?
Ves!
One minute!
Allen shouted andunched Ves into the air, and she quickly checked her opponents numbers.
There''re still a lot! What if their numbers never decrease?
Allen frowned. They were not realthey were illusions.
No, they could be a characteristic of the barrier, just like how those trees and rocks returned to their original state.
Either way, this spelled bad news for Allen.
Gurgle, gurgle.
A ghoul, revealing his hideous muscles, fell towards him head first with his knife-like nails still shining. Allen hit the air, bending the ghoul with a huge shock wave. He stomped the lowered head with his foot, copsing the head into itself with just a touch.
The waves of monsters approached Allen ceaselessly. Even though hed been able to take a look through Vess eyes, there were still so many that he couldnt see an end.
Allen used his new body.
With his overwhelming physical ability, he shattered the corpses bones, and blocked attacks with steel-like skin as a shield.
As he battled wave after wave of monsters, Allen thought.
Theres no end to this.
As if the witch had started manipting the monsters, at some point they cleverly arranged themselves into formations and began to move in a way so as to finally start chipping away at Allens strength.
Physical strength isnt the problem.
He didnt think that his giant''s body would copse as a result of these kinds of attacks.
However, if the attacks were to continue, his mind would be tired, even more than his body.
Ves! Grow!
Got it! Ha!
Allen caught her body, falling under its heavy weight, and twisted it through the air. He screamed, feeling as though his muscles were going to break. The air around let out a swooshing noise as a shadow formed over their heads.
A slow-moving sword may only lead to overwhelming violence as a result of its weight.
Crash!
A ten-meter-wide divet in the ground formed around Allen as small pieces of meat scattered on the shattered ground and rolled around.
Even if I do this, itll all go back to its original state.
But it didn''t matter.
It was all to create a crack.
He immediately let go with his hand and gathered his threads. If these monsters were the servants of his opponent, and if those servants were subordinate to her, then
I can take them away.
[Contracts], [Domain], [Force], [Capture].
The four concepts drawn from his imagination mixed and transformed into a single technique. His thread split into thousands of strands and went for the fallen bodies lying on the ground.
The flesh began to wriggle and regather.
Allenughed, satisfied as he witnessed the thread mixing itself into the flesh.
Forced contract.
As his core worked tirelessly, his hands moved delicately like a puppeteer.
Go, monsters.
Attack each other like crazy.
Before he even knew it, the monsters, whod returned to their original formspletely, began to confront the waves of corpses still rushing towards him.
Allen supported their every movement with his senses, conjuring up a splitting headache.
''I can''t keep doing this for long
He didnt know much about the summoning system, so he had no choice but to control them manually. Since they were already dead, Call of the Cradle wouldnt work. He needed to find a way to escape as he bought time.
Seeing Allen troubled, Vesfloating next to himopened her mouth with a reluctant voice:
[There is a way out.]
Allen endured the headache as he turned his head. The illegible characters engraved on Vess ck surfacesomething hed thought just a decorationbegan to sh and glow.
Ves, what is this?
Once I do this, I don''t know how long itll be until Ie back. It could be a monthor even a year.
Didn''t you say you had no special abilities?
Allen asked in a disbelieving tone through his headache. Ves replied, bewildered:
Well, I only realized it a few days ago! Come on, make a choice quickly!
Escape here now using her ability, or wait it out and find another way?
His answer came quickly.
It''d be a shame to use her powers now.
He didn''t know what kind of ability shed have, but if there was only one chance to take that risk, itd be much more useful to use it during a more significant and/or life-threatening moment than now.
But it wasnt like there was anything else he could do otherwise.
It wouldnt be easy to escape the barrier unless his opponent left, first.
If we were to keep tearing down the forest until we found the axis of the barrier, instead
Most of the bodies that were controlled by Allen were already incapacitated, and time wasnt going to stop.
Hurry up and decide! You said you had work to do!
Okay, lets go.
The moment that Allen opened his shut eyes and made his decision
Shimmer.
The white book suddenly opened, and letters began to write themselves onto the white paper.
The book connected to confirms the conditions. s presence is known! The target associated with is nearby! They want to stop !
The conditions are met. (tentative name) is manifested!
Three steps to the right. Two steps back. A shock wave reaching up to 400 meters within eight seconds.
"This is"
A new variable had emerged.
Chapter 47
Chapter 47
Allen looked at the white book in front of him with a stunned face.
What is this?
Unlike the ck book that hed been able to use since first encountering it, why did it suddenly work after so many months of uselessness?
Three steps to the right. Two steps back. A shock wave reaching up to 400 meters within eight seconds.
Despite Allens suspicious gaze, the white book disyed the same page, giving no additional answer.
Eight seconds.
Allen?
As if she could not see what had been written in the white book, Ves urged Allen.
What do you want to do?
Seven seconds.
No w-wait.
Staying as cool as possible, Allen squinted. He didn''t have time to worry now. He had to think as hard as he could.
Six seconds.
What is ? Is it the same thing I read aboutst time?
Was it the reason why the white book reacted so suddenly?
Five seconds.
What''s the deal? Is it the witch? Something about the corpses? Ves? Or even the situation itself?
What was the meaning of this unknown helpappearing at such a random time?
Four seconds.
Hurry up and decide!
What does the white book want?
No, the goal of the person who brought him back
Allen!
Three seconds.
Allen finally moved.
Three steps to the right.
Using this, I can get away.
Even without Vess new, secret ability.
Itd take a little bit longer, but now, this situation wasnt inescapable.
So
Two seconds.
Two steps back.
What did these directions mean?
I''ll figure it out.
One second.
Pang!
As Allen twisted his hand, threads spun around over his head, flying into the airexactly 400 meters above Allens head.
What are you do!
And at the very moment the shock wave scratched the air and reached its target
Zero seconds.
Clink!
[ing! Huh?]
With that delicate sound, the world broke down.
Allens shock wave had identally broken the central axis in the air, destroying the barrier itself. Seeing this, Allens eyes settled.
Before they even knew it, Allen and Ves were back somewhere in the forest.
Ves turned the tip of her sword, looked around, and began to make a fuss.
Wow I don''t know how, but you did it! What a relief! Hurray! Why didn''t you do that from the beginning if you always knew there was a way?
Allen looked at the white book with a bitter smile.
Well, I wish Id known the whole time that there was a way.
Ah, I suppose, alls well that ends well.
The white book,
After destroying the barriers axis, they are released from their trap.
Their escape consumes a lot of mana, but due to the grand amount of mana generated by the core of a dragon, it is all able to be recovered immediately
As if nothing had happened, it had turned back into nothing but a book of nk pages.
Just like always.
* * *
Naruck, the third-degree witch, turned red and vomited blood. The old body trembled at the painful magical reactionbut rather than focusing on that, she was curious about something else.
How did he find the central axis of the barrier?
Three days ago, she had noticed that someone was watching this ce, and immediately prepared for an attack. As she had expected, that challenger appeared today. She was a little intimidated by his power, but seeded in locking him in the trap she had prepared.
From there, she nned on locking him up, draining his life force, and killing him.
How did he find it?
Naruck immediately stopped thinking about how shed deal with Allen. Seeing his power through the eyes of her minions, she knew it wasnt worth trying to deal with.
It was fortunate that she had widened the distance between them before the barrier waspletely broken, or else they would have encountered her the second the central axis of the barrier copsed.
I have to run away, right now.
She immediately smashed the altar in the center of her magic circle and hurriedly packed the red jewel shed made by drawing on the life force of the forest.
Please, please don''t let it be toote.
She regretted letting her body get so old, so fragile. But, fuck it, she ran straight to her pre-built escape route.
The moment she took her first step
Where are you off to?
She heard the voice she wished not to hear.
So, youre the challenger that broke into my barrier.
Yes, and youre the witch who''s been spreading curses through mynd.
By chance, is there a certain person you want dead?
Allen smirked at her answer.
Why, you want me to try to kill someone else, instead?
Sure, I have many talents. For example
Allen''s feet began to stir, but in an instant, thick roots came up from the ground onto his legs, wrapping themselves around him.
"Killing a little boy like nobodys business!"
The roots covered his whole body and began to squeeze, trying to crush his body. Allen calmly stared at it, taking it all in.
The witch spoke as if she had already wonwith an ugly smile stered on her wrinkled face.
Theres no use. Just in case, these vines were woven by the roots and fibers of a hundred trees, so no matter how strong you are
Crunch.
"No matter how strong I am?"
"Oh, how
The witch uttered to herself in disbelief. Allen immediately began to take action, convinced that shed run out of cards.
"I wanted to check, just in case, but it seems you''re out of tricks."
Allen turned, tearing the roots, which shouldve been able to crush steel, as if they were paper.
"Now, hold on a second! Iiit was just a mistake! Im quite usefu
"No."
Thud.
"Witches arent to be trusted."
The witch''s body, now split in half, fell sideways. In between the halves, blood poured out like a waterfall, creating a small pond of blood.
Allen cut the witch''s throat once more using Ves, and stabbed her through her heart for safe measure. The body, now split into four pieces, convulsed for thest time, almost like it was asking for forgiveness.
Allen shook the dirt off his body and sent out a small shock wave to vaporize the dirt, and confirmed the presence of the magic circle hed seen when using [Heavens Eye].
Was she gathering the life force using this?
Did the broken altar serve as the medium, while the magic circle painted with blood stored the life force? Because he didnt know much about the ritual magic system, he wasnt sure.
As Allen inspected the magic circle, Veswho was also investigatingyelled:
Take a look at this!
Allen raised his head, as she skillfully flew towards him with a purse draped around her de.
Whats this?
It''s one of the witch''s things! Couldnt it hold a treasure or something?
As she fussed at him to open it quickly, Allen stretched out his senses to see if there was anything wrong with it and opened the purse. Inside, a single red jewel glowed a bloody color.
Do you know what this is?
A life stone. Its a top-shelf item. Is she raking in all the life force here to send to the Heavenly Forest through this?
She must have put a lot of effort into it. Allen took it. He didnt know where hed use it yet, but he knew there were many predicaments in which it could be helpful.
Now, let us head back. Or else we might have to walk back to the city.
It wouldnt matter to me. Im flying anyway, arent I?
Well, it does to me.
Having to run to the city because he had no ride once was enough for him.
Hurry up.
Yes, yes, alright.
* * *
Sir Julius, thank you so much!
Thats our Sir Julius. Theres a reason he earned his fame.
Thanks to you, sir, I was able to protect my precious belongings.
Julius had made sure that the auction house hadnt been broken into, thus receiving their thanks.
It was nothing. I had to protect my own belongings, too, of course.
Today, the final day of the auctionconsisting of ancient artifacts carried from the estatewas scheduled to take ce.
If the thieves hadn''t broken in at the end, he''d have already taken his profit and gone back to where they were staying.
Sir Julius, are you okay?
As he shook off the blood from his sword and looked behind him, he saw a beautiful woman with a pure face approach him with worried eyes.
"Irene No, I should call you Mrs. Irene now, shouldnt I?"
"No, no! Please, call me Irene when its just us."
She shook her head, her purple hair fluttering with a sorry feeling.
Really?
Julius looked at hersmiling happilyand used his [Iridescent Eye].
Yellow mixed with light orange.
Irene Blest.
On his way to the kingdom, he ran into her as she was being threatened by an assassin, and promptly saved her. Hearing her history of unfair treatment, he then seeded in helping her defeat those who opposed her and reinstating her as sessor.
Since then, she promised to grant him anything he wished for in return, thus letting Julius and hispanions stay in his mansion.
For this kind of talent, it''s worth the risk.
She wasnt even in the original novel.
She had the potential to be a major ally if he took her to the Academy.
Well
Irene blushed shyly and carefully opened her mouth.
We didnt have dinner together
No, he had a previous engagement with me.
Irene''s face turned cold as she turned her head in the direction of the voice, finding a woman wearing a cartoon-like suit of armor walking towards them.
My warmest greetings, Third Princess.
* * *
* * *
I asked you not to address me so rigidlycall me Helena.
As Irene greeted her with an emotionless voice, Helena ced her hand on Juliuss shoulder with a slight smirk.
And to you too, Julius.
Its been quite a while, princess.
Yes, its been a few days since I saw you there.
Julius smiled awkwardly and avoided her gaze.
I didn''t expect to be involved with one of the original novels main heroes.
That had happened at the ck market too.
While he was at the ck marketwhere Laina had joined him in secreta power sh urred suddenly, and he joined forces with Helena to escape, who was also there.
She did help me out, but
It was fine if the crazy princess thought of him as a friend. Getting to know her would be beneficial to him when he returned to the Academy.
And
There didnt exist a man who could resist a beautiful womans approach.
Yes, that was thest time I saw you.
Then you didn''t forget the promise you made there, did you? Didnt I ask you to share a meal?
But
Julius turned his head slightly, seeing Irene staring at Helena with astonished eyes.
Couldnt Irene join us?
Hmm I wished to enjoy this. But if it''s ording to your request, then I suppose it cant be helpedIll allow it.
Thank you.
Irene suppressed her emotions, bowed her head, and with a reluctant tone, said:
Thank you for granting your permission, Princess.
You should perhaps thank Julius instead.
Yes.
Irene gritted her teeth. She had to put up with itno matter how much anger the princess inspired in her, no matter how much the princesss interference annoyed her, and no matter how possessive she was.
Say it nonchntly.
Thank you, Julius.
Her ck eyes glowed hollowly.
* * *
Carnell, what happened to the n?
The n went smoothly, as always. A sacrifice escaped the curse in the middle Well, luck always runs out at some point.
And what about the whole dead witch thing?
News of the curse must have identally reached the ear of some noble who stopped by the city.
Carnell shrugged and examined the ceremonial altar, which they had been carefully constructing for several years now. The altar had a bizarre appearance. The magic circle painted around it emitted an angry red smoke, and the thinly attached veins pulsed like they were alive.
Dozens of dark sorcerers who constantly surrounded itchanting together, hand in handsustained the ceremony.
No, there shouldnt be any issues. It has already been cured twice in the same area. If we get caught here
"Stop, stop. Marlock, you''re so paranoid. From amon-sense standpoint, whod even imagine trying to do what we are?
As Carnell spokewiping the blood off his lipsMarlock agreed, silently recalling their previous fortune.
Youre right. But one of the higher-up families may begin to notice something.
Have you forgotten where we are?
Carnell asked, smiling as if he really didn''t know.
The Reinharts
Thats right, Marlock. So it''s impossible. But, if you''re still nervous, bring a sacrifice. If you think youll be caught if your sacrifice is a human, then get something elsegot it?
If its the only way then alright.
Marlock pulled out a sword that had been stuck in the ground, lowering the visor of his ck helmet.
Be careful, now. There''s not much time left until the end.
Ill heed your advice. Ah.
Marlock, who was about to get up, opened his mouth as if he remembered something he had forgotten for a while.
A few days ago, members from a majority of our branches reported that they felt they were being watched. What do you make of this?
Hmm
He rolled his eyes and said, in a matter-of-fact tone:
[Heavens Eye].
What?
The thing that people from all of our branches felt were the eyes observing all of the same thing at once It couldnt be anything other than the disappeared Wonder.
I-I see.
But we don''t have to worry. Headquarters will be taking action soon anyway. Do you understand?
I get it.
He slung his sword over his shoulder.
Catch as many as you can.
Ill try.
Carnell took a bite out of the heart in his hand as he watched Marlock slowly disappear into the fog.
Kek, how long will it be until the timees?
He got up from his seat.
There was still much to do. Even if there wasnt much time left until thepletion of the ritual, everything theyd prepared for years could copse if any problems urred in the meantime.
Carnell hummed as he moved.
Hmhmm~
Little did they know, the beginning of a new era was on the horizon.
Chapter 48
Chapter 48
When they finally made their way out of the woods, the sun hung precariously at the edge of the western sky. The coachman saw Allen walking out of the woods and hurried out from behind a boulder.
Sir Allen!
Lets get back to the city.
You mean
The coachmans eyes quickly turned towards the forest from which Allen came.
The witch is dead.
Th-then the curse is
Allen smiled. Now that the witch was dead, there was no way that the curse could continue raging on as it had.
The curse wont spread any further.
That''s Sir Allen for you!
All of the people whod been cursed should get well quickly, thanks to Allen''s goodwill, so long as they took good care of themselves.
Thats the end of that.
Now hed just have to stay a day in Bergen and then leave.
Let''s get going. It''s been far too long since I''ve been to the city.
* * *
The carriage arrived at the city three dayster.
The indigo sky passed as if tomemorate his victory, allowing the appearance of the bright sunlight. Countless people noisily flocked to the city with it.
As soon as Allen returned, he was able to meet with Soned. Karik greeted him upon his arrival and listened to the conversation in silence, appearing lost in thought.
First of all, congrattions on safely dealing with the witch, sir.
I simply did what I had to.
Soned replied with a big smile at Allens modest response.
There are many who dont. Can''t you hear the peoples praise for you outside?
Soned smiled and turned his head to the window, from where the voices praising Allen leaked in.
Long live Sir Allen!
Hooray! The curse is gone!
Thank you! Thank you so much!
Who are you hearing all of this from? All Ive done is supply them with potions and herbs.
Soned carefully examined Allens expression, as if making an assumption, but Allen smiled quietly, feigning ignorance.
Like hed found their praise secretly pleasing.
Inellia did well.
He hoped that everything regarding Julius had gone just as well.
As soon as he realized that he wouldnt be able to find any cracks in his faade, Soned immediately shrugged off Allens expression and spoke like hed just remembered something.
* * *
* * *
I forgot to ask you this before, sir, but why did you take interest in our group?
He skillfully crafted his facial expression. It appeared natural, as if generated from genuine curiosity, such that anyone would be fooledexcept, he was talking to Allen.
Why is he doubting me now?
Yes, this was the true face of a merchant. When theyd first met, he mustve been too preupied by the issue with his son, but hed clearly grown suspicious in the days following.
Wasnt it quite the coincidence?
Wasnt the timing of Allens visit a little too convenient?
Seeing how he was able to cure the curse guing his son and then go straight into business confirmed his suspicions.
Oh, that?
Allen replied like nothing was amiss.
My father used to drink tea brewed from elf-grown leaves, so I came to you all to see if you could locate some for me.
Tea leaves?
Allen gave a light nod in agreement.
Yes, its well-known that you have a history of trade with the elves, no?
That''s true, but
Soned blurted out his words as if he was caught.
As you know, my family We aren''t exactly on good terms with the elves.
They truly werent. If one of them were to even identally step into elven territory, war would break out right away.
That''s why I couldn''t visit the Heavenly Forest sooner.
For the sake of their overall racial rtions, they decided to leave their rtionship alone, despite its awful state. The downfall of his family had much to do with it.
That is true, yes.
Soned quickly epted Allens answer, having investigated the situation in advance.
So, I wanted to meet with a merchant group to acquire tea leaves. Why, did it seem like I had another reason?
It didn''t matter whether Allen was being truthful or not. The important thing was that Soned had no choice but to ept his answer.
Soned shook off any further doubts and smiled kindly.
Haha, how could I doubt you, sir? I was just wondering why you were looking for me. Ill make sure that I get the tea leaves for you.
Thank you.
Allen gave a rarely seen deep smile.
It was nearly an excuse,ing to get tea leaves, but he truly hadnt forgotten the vor of the tea hed tasted, when hed had tea time with his father.
So
Allen turned to Karik with a faint smile.
Mr. Karik, is your silence indicative of some sort of personal concern?
What?
Kariks eyes momentarily turned to Soned, though only for a brief moment. Allens gaze was inescapable.
That''s why the two of them are here together Its nice to have your expectations be proven correct.
Originally, he only wanted Sonedbut seeing Karik, Allen seemed to be able to rope him in, too. From Allens point of view, it was safer to form a rtionship with two merchants rather than one.
Because, even though Soned had a reliable personality, leaving all the trade work to one person could lead to bing economically dependent on them.
I
Karik recalled what hed heard from Soned after Allen had leftwhat hed said carefully in a low tone.
I didnt know Eliza was from the Lupinus family.
The family that produced eight of the continents previous generations greatest warriorsthe leaders of the eastern ravine area and a rare breed, extremely tight-knit with blood rtives.
Soned himself had told Karik of what was told to him by an elf that he knew, and forbade Karik from speaking about it carelessly.
I didnt know Id be forced to choose like this.
Originally, he wanted to maintain a connection with Allen.
But goingpletely under him was a different story.
I was just avoiding the topic when it felt weird.
Karik regretted not leaving right away the second Soned had begun to speak.
Hed never heard anything about Elizas origin while traveling through the county, which meant she was hiding the fact that she was from the Lupinus family. This secret he couldn''t handle served as shackles that bound him, rather than helping him foster a bond.
What the hell was he thinking?
From Soned''s point of view, itd be more useful to him to align with Allen by himself.
Karik didnt understand what Soned was trying to achieve, telling him secrets he didnt need to know.
No matter how much of a good rapport he had with Sir Allen, it wouldnt be a good enough reason to act while denying his identity as a merchant.
Would my father have known what to do?
Karik shook his head.
The time to make his choice hade, and there was no backing out now. Karik collected himself and slowly opened his mouth.
Sir
Yes.
Allen answered leisurely.
I did a lot of thinking after you went away to hunt down the witch.
Soneds eyes gleamed as they stared at Allen.
I saw your character in the way you saved Eric without hesitation, and I was moved by the way you supported the cursed without dy.
Allen did not cut off his long-winded praise like before.
And I saw your valor in your actions at the Thanksgiving festival, as well as the might with which you defeated a witch. So
Karik exined to Allen the conclusion which hed agonized over, nonstop, for days:
Id like to continue a rtionship with you.
Rtionship?
Yes.
Allen looked at him with a thin smile.
Our group is not big, but our influence is increasing as well as our relevance with various items.
And so?
So
Karik opened his mouth with a determined face.
We would like to face the future with you on our side, sir.
The same would go for us, sir.
Soned inclined his head, tagging on to Kariks deration.
This is helpful, too.
He couldnt be sure that Karik didnt have any other motivations for staying with him, but it was clear that the basis for Soneds behavior was his favor toward Allen. If there were two merchants under Allen rather than one, theyd inevitably have topete, making for a more favorable situation for him.
Your addition can stop a monopoly.
Soneds character was such that even the elves, who werent friendly to humans, could make a deal after forming a rtionship.
Thanks to you, we were able to increase our reputation as a merchant group, and thus, we were able to make a lot of profit. Therefore, I would like to continue onward with you, sir.
Allen nodded with a satisfied smile. He didnt think he could get true loyalty from a merchant.
Yes, it must have been a tough decision to make to continue business with me. I promise to live up to your expectations.
It was the same as dering to be virtually subordinate under hismand.
Allens words were cleverly crafted, but Soned didnt arguehe could endure that muchand gently smiled.
Yes, I look forward to your kind cooperation.
Itll be an honor to work with you.
Acanders, Soned, and Karik.
Finally, I got them all.
All the essential elements of his future n had been gathered.
* * *
Allen delivered to them the orders hed thought up in advance.
Soned, continue searching for that book I asked for.
The magic book?
Allen nodded.
Hed found out through Inellia that there wasnt any book in the area that touched up on demon contracting.
The contract-magic book with a red cover.
A red book about contractual magic I see.
Soned wondered at Allens rtively detailed conditions, but didnt return any questions. He just assumed that Allen was testing his abilities.
And in the future, if you spot any merchant groups that you havent seen in the territory before, report to me."
Any merchant groups that I havent seen in the territory before?
Allen answered firmly to Kariks questioning face.
Yes.
This was a question that hed been poondering since having tea with his father.
Where does the familys money go?
Hed just buried the question in the past because he didnt have enough people or power to do anything about it. Despite rumors of decline, it was hard to find any instance in which funds were scarce.
Luxury wasnt out of the question, either. His father bought luxurious tea leaves, and the weekly sries of workers were paid without any dy.
Allen intended to trace the source of any abnormal transactions.
If they do well, they may be able to find out about the connection between the people surrounding Acanderss father.
It was rted to his father, so Acandersd be sure to cooperate smoothly.
Recently, weve noticed that there was a ck market operating illegally in the territory. Its not easy to deal with using soldiers, but itd be different for you.
However, he didnt intend to proceed with this issue in much of a hurry.
The ck markets were never discovered in his previous life, so he didnt think itd be easy to get it done.
You all hold connections with most of the merchants here, right? So, if you stumble upon a new merchant group for the first time or arge-scale operation anywhere in the territory, report it.
Their looks said they understood Allens words.
And finally
Allen looked out the window for a moment. As autumn came to an end, a chill passed through the branches of the bare trees.
Theres not much time left until the new year.
Come to the Elle Round next January. I have someone to introduce to you both.
Theyde to see Acanders often, so itd be good for them to meet. Theyd be seeing each other more often from then.
And don''t bete.
Ill pay the bnce for the herbs then.
Even if he were to not pay for them, his debt wouldve already been paid for by the donation of the potion hed found on the mountain.
I trust you.
Then Ill take my leave Oh, yes. Soned"
As Allen paused while he was getting up, Soned asked with a smile:
What is it? Ah, if its about the reward you mentioned earlier, dont worry at all about
Allen shook his head.
Something different.
What is it?"
Don''t make it publicly known that youre with me.
As Soned blinked, Allen added:
The elves.
Ah!
Upon realizing his true intentions, Soned nodded admiringly at Allens meticulous foresight.
Ill im that my rtionship with you is solely for the exchange of tea leaves if necessary.
I understand.
Allen got up from his seat and said in a yful tone:
Then Ill just look around in the trove you''re proud of.
Allen didnt think hed find anything as useful as that which hed already remembered, but
You never know.
As he began to leave the door of the drawing room, Soned added:
Ill prepare you a guide.
Chapter 49
Chapter 49
Thank you, Sir Allen!
You cured us! Witch yer!
Hooray!
Allen and hispanions were able to leave Bergen, drowned by countless flowers flying towards the carriage.
Where did they get so many flowers this out of season, with winter right over the horizon? The sight of the flowers caught in the wind, enveloping the carriage, almost made it feel as though springtime hade for a moment.
In the midst of the crowd of those seeing him off, Soned and Karik wereughing with each other, joyful, like the operation was a sess.
Smirk.
Allen passed through Bergens front gate, surrounded byvish praise.
Karik said hed stay in the city for the rest of the year, so the number of people returning was reduced by one. In his ce, there sat a box in the corner of the wagon containing the tea leaves that Soned had procured.
Hehe
When Allen turned his head towards the joyful sound ofughter, he saw Linbelle smiling, clutching a sword encased in a ck sheath.
Do you like it that much?
Yes!
She replied with a big smile.
With this, I wont be a burden anymore!
Allen looked at the long utilitarian ck sword in her armsits name, given for its perfectly ck exterior, was Pure ck.
A sword said to reveal the potential of whichever talent is designated by the wielder
The Daike merchant group of the present hadnt yet had the chance to grow into the powerful group that Allen remembered it would be, so he didn''t have grand expectations for their rare-item collectionsso he was surprised to hear the description of the sword.
If it truly does have that effect, it could fetch a high price at the royal auction.
However, upon hearing the even more detailed exnation, he could see why it was still gathering dust in the trove.
The conditions for using this sword were a bit demanding. The first was that the talent that the wielder designated to be revealed had to fundamentally belong to the wielder already. But if ones talent needed to be awakened by a sword, how sessful was that person bound to be?
Surely, the wielder must have already practiced in battle techniques like mana, prana, swordsmanship, and martial arts. But what if the wielder chose to reveal their talent for swordsmanship just to find that they, in reality, had none whatsoever?
Then, the wielder would just be wasting time, unsure of whether or not the sword had awoken their talents in a particr field yet.
No matter how hard you trained, if you didnt have real talent, you wouldnt grow at all. And for that reason, the people who bought the sword, in hopes that they might have a hidden special talent, often returned it after a few weeks.
But, its just as frustrating even if you do have talent.
The second condition is just as indefinite.
In order to have their designated talent revealed, the user had to devote a lot of time to training in that field, to the extent that they had to carve time out of their schedule to get even a wink of sleep.
The irony was, no matter how talentless a person may have been, if they trained day and night, their skills would improve. But if you had talent, you would grow even faster.
So theres no way to know if the sword worked or not.
In the first ce, the reference point for the presence or absence of talent and ones capacity for that talent was hard to define, so if it was natural, then it came as a natural result.
For this reason, Pure ckwhich received a lot of attention when it was originally foundhopped from merchant to merchant before being picked up by the Daike merchant group.
Knowing this, Soned had urged Allen to pick something else when Allen had picked up Pure ck.
But Allen stubbornly insisted on the sword. Because he was confident.
''This can definitely help Linbelle to grow.
Confident that the sword could assist Linbelle.
Allen knew how much talent she had, and how hard shed been secretly working to improve it. So he chose the sword, without hesitation.
After Allen refused to change his decision, Soned epted the request, knowing that it couldnt be helped.
I think shes been overdoing ittely
Allen looked at Linbelle for a moment, his face troubled. She stroked the sword repeatedly under an obsessive gaze, refusing to even look away.
Isnt it ufortable? Its alright to put the sword away.
No, sir. Ill never, ever, let it go.
Not even for a moment?
I-I just like it, sir. Please, please Ill be careful with it.
The words burst out of her mouth as she urgently hugged the sword in her arms with anxious eyes and a suddenly frightened expression.
Did I put too much pressure on her?
Regret lingered in Allens eyes for a moment before dissipating. He smiled bitterly for a moment and shook his head. Having already seen the power she could possess in the future, hed had too great a set of expectations for her.
Its not even the same person.
Her dead mother survived. Her raging vengeance did not exist.
Emotions have a tremendous impact on skill growth, especially when ites to prana.
He shouldnt have expected the same result this time because what used to be her motivation for growth had disappeared.
While all of that was going on, I asked Inellia to do more things for me on her own.
He didnt know how she felt, thinking she didnt meet Allens expectations.
Allen sighed and replied.
No, if its better for you, then go ahead.
Yes, yes! Thank you.
Linbelle smiled brightly again and embraced the sword strongly.
Its my fault.
Inellias expression was not good. Allen looked at her dark face and closed his eyes.
It would be nice if there were a good opportunity in this forest.
Her presence proved that Allen could change the future.
So he couldnt give up.
Leaves crumbled and rustled along the road in thete autumn, and their carriage bound for Elle Round moved quickly alongside the white clouds above.
It wouldnt be long before he met Julius again.
* * *
Allen entered the city as quietly as hed left the manor. Despite his arrival, there was no disturbance because word of his noble deeds at Bergen had yet to make its way to Elle Round.
Allen delivered to his father the report he had written while riding in the carriage.
You originally stopped by Bergen for personal business, but then heard of a rampant curse, the caster of which you found and took down?
Gaielle, reading what had happened in Bergen, asked back with a smile:
Is this true?
Yes.
His father, whom hed finally met again after a few weeks, was no different from when hedst seen him: a severe, cold demeanorthe kind of man whod confirm the truth first rather than giving a word of concern for the news of a subjugated witch.
The master of the Reinhart family, and his father.
To think, the witch reappeared and began spreading curses once more I don''t doubt your ims of fully eradicating her, but
Gaielle turned his ssy eyes to look at Allen.
Why didn''t you ask for backup? You shouldnt act alone in such a situation
Maybe there was something else going on? In response to his fathers doubt, Allen recited the answer hed prepared earlier.
Many of the locals had already been cursed. I acted quickly and alone because I knew that the curse would grow more dangerous as time went by.
Is that all?
Do I need more justification than the safety and lives of our people?
Allens political argument forced Gaielles silence.
Although I requested for help, I had no choice but to act since the curse was bound to kill many.
Gaielle, who was staring at Allen without saying a word despite his secondary exnation, nodded with an unbothered expression.
Im sorry to have doubted you. Good job. You must be tired, so go now.
Yes, I will.
Allen bowed to Gaielle quietly and turned around.
Click.
As soon as Allen opened the office door, Gaielle suddenly called out.
Allen.
Allen paused as Gaielle threw him a question.
Why did you go to Bergen?
Was that it?
Allen answered his question in a low voice:
I couldnt forget the vor of the elves tea we shared. I headed to Bergen to find some of the same tea leaves.
Really? Why, it just so happens that I don''t have much left
Im sorry.
Allen answered firmly and opened the door entirely.
I dont think I can give you any. I could only get a small amount.
Allen heard a small sigh behind him.
Thats simply too unfortunate.
I think so too, Father.
Truly.
After meeting with his father, Allen immediately went to meet with Eliza.
Its really been a long time since Ivest seen you, Allen. Hm? Is there something youre forgetting?
She criticized Allen with a sulky face as if upset.
Im upset, Allen. Isnt a promise to your mother still a promise?
Mother, I have so much work to do. I cant help it
You can''t even take a moment to spend with me?
With a keen look that said she knew everything, Allen calmly admitted his mistake:
Im sorry.
From dealing with Arcanders to meeting with Soned and dealing with the witchthat he couldnt see her was the truth. He had other business to take care of.
I will visit you often from now on.
Well, I somehow doubt you really will, but I forgive you because you were forthright about it.
Allen replied quietly and silently.
Eliza looked at him with disapproving eyes and sighed:
But I''m d youre alright. I heard you battled a witch. Was it dangerous?
It all happened quite quickly.
Try to be careful. Honestly, this time, you were just in reckless.
Allen wanted to tell her that he acted that way because of how confident he was that hed beat the witch. But in the face of her worried eyes, the words caught in his throat.
Ill keep it in mind next time.
I wont argue with you.
Seeing his mother take a deep sigh, Allen gestured for Inellia.
Originally, hed nned on giving it to her a littleter, but he felt that doing so now could help him to end his current state of emotional difort.
Inellia, whod been greeting a maid she hadnt seen in a long time behind Allen, ced the items shed quietly prepared on the table at Allens signal.
Whats this?
* * *
* * *
Tea from the Daike merchant group.
I have enough tea leaves for myself, so Ill only ept your positive intentions
Allen added:
Its elf-grown.
is what I would have said, but I simply cannot refuse a gift brought by my own son. Thank you for the gift. Laura?
The maid, a simr age to his mother, smiled bitterly and filled a box with tea leaves.
Then I must excuse myself.
Already? Well alright. It hasnt been long since you arrived, has it? You must be very tired. Hurry up and rest.
Alright.
Allen addressed her with a happy smile, and stood up.
Step, step.
As he began to make his way out of the terrace, her voice reached his ears.
I dont know what youre doing, but dont do anything dangerous.
Pause.
I dont want to lose anybody again, Allen.
Allen didnt answer and just continued walking.
She, too, resumed her activities, having teatime with Laura again with a smile, as if she hadnt expected an answer out of Allen either.
But in that moment, he was struck by the emotion in her words.
Mother.
It was horribly dark, and as grim as a deep swamp.
Beyond ones wildest imagination.
* * *
Allen stayed silent after his arrival, patiently waiting to hear from Julius.
Eliza didnt say much to him after their conversation that day, and Allen spent his days repeating his daily routine in the manor.
Going over his remaining ns, he delivered a secret order to Karik and Soned.
Allen learned about Vess secret technique after she had finally been able to figure it out and took some time to investigate extra details about the Heavenly Forest.
So, three dayster
Brother!
Julius arrived.
Julius.
How have you been, Brother?
Ive been well. Ah
Allen looked surprised and pointed behind him. Julius replied, with an unrevealing expression:
A lot happened during my journey to the capitol. This is what I got from there.
The main gate of the mansion was crowded with items, brought by dozens of carriages entering from the city one after another.
Allen could have guessed what happened, even if he hadn''t been there to see it for himself.
Are all of these gifts from the third princess, Young Lady Irene, the auction house, and ck markets?
It didnt impress him much when he saw it in the ck book, but seeing it in person, it was enormous.
In my previous life, I was stuck in a room all the time.
This was the first time he actually saw it. The servants all admired the endless parade of gifts.
Wow as expected of Young Master Julius.
Thats crazy. I cant believe he got that much from the capitol
"Wow look at Young Master Julius."
The servants and maids seemed relieved by Juliussplete attitude shift.
Tsk.
Allen looked at Julius without a change in expression.
You wouldnt believe what happened.
Haha, very interesting. Id love to hear all about it, but you must have a lot to unpack from your travels, so lets talk tomorrow.
Julius replied with a friendly smile at Allens show of consideration.
Im alright, but if my brother says no, then, of course, Ill tell you tomorrow.
Yes, your healthes first, so rest well.
The health of the body belonging to his brother.
Itd be a shame if you caught a cold.
Haha, I see, Brother. Ill rest up. Thatll keep me safe.
Julius left the rest of his luggage to the servants and disappeared into the mansion with Laina. Allen watched as his back disappeared, then turned away.
Tell me tomorrow I wonder if Ill have time for that.
Allen swallowed his cynicism and returned inside with Linbelle and Inellia. Still, he had to keep up the appearance of being Juliuss amiable brother and a righteous person.
Fortunately, Allens prediction was not wrong.
The next day, while the family gathered together for the first time in a long while to share a meal, a servant suddenly opened the door of the dining room with a stressed expression.
Bang!
Sir! Sir!
Julius shouted, in a bad mood after being interrupted while talking excitedly.
What is it! You interrupt me while Im in the middle of my meal
But the servant, whose face turned white, shouted loudly before he could hear Julius.
Elf! An elf
No one took issue with his attitude.
Has arrived at the manor in a terrible state!
His words were important enough to ignore his rudeness. At the servants words, Gaielle and Eliza changed their expressions and quickly rose from their seats.
What?
An elf?
Julius frowned as if hed still yet to grasp the meaning of the servants words.
While all of that was urring
Its finally here.
Allens eyes sankthat which hed expected had finally arrived.
An event that greatly inted Juliuss reputation in their previous life, an event that could also be called a disaster for the county, had begun.
Chapter 50
Chapter 50
The Reinhart familya family settled in the western part of the Kingdom of Liber, known as a prestigious family with great influence.
In the past.
Not now.
Over thest three generations, the family slowly began their decline.
The number of merchants in their territory decreased, and their exchanges with the surrounding nobles became steadily sparser. Nobles applying to work in their manor as well as the houseguests staying there gradually vanished.
The Reinhart family was now politically isted.
It''s true that its dying.
In other words, if they declined any more than they already had, they would copse from within, leaving only their formerly glorified name behind.
The reason behind their decline may be due to abination of unfavorable factors, but the biggest reason was rted to experiments conducted throughout the past three generations of the family.
An experiment to use a Sacred Tree.
Sacred Trees were special trees.
Just by being in their presences, the surrounding nts grew healthy. They formed a sort of safe zone wherein monsters could not invade. The elvesmunicated with the Sacred Trees to cultivate the forests around them and produce a huge amount of food, from which they umted enormous wealth.
The Reinharts estate was close to the Great Forest neighboring the Michent Mountains.
So.
It was a stupid choice.
Wasnt it a lie that only elves couldmunicate with the Sacred Trees?
If they could use the Sacred Trees as they so desired, then why wouldnt they have acted bolder? Wasnt it all a trick to monopolize the Sacred Trees?
These questions and desires, which had been umting for decades, passed a critical threshold, driving the Reinharts to devise a n to steal the nearest Sacred Treeand try to corrupt its power.
They had to have been confident.
They had thought, after observing the elves for hundreds of yearsstudying them in secretthat itd be enough.
If their experiment was sessful, they wouldve known that they could break out from having to rely heavily on food sourced from the elves. Sess was right in front of them, so how could worldly criticism pose a problem?
In fact, if the Reinhart family had seeded at manipting a Sacred Tree, they would have achieved both inordinate wealth and power, all at once.
The same goes for the protests and threats from the elves. If the experiment were sessful, it was obvious that the Kingdom of Liber, which would share the benefits, would block the elves protests.
The elves wouldnt be able to wage war with humans for the sake of the survival of their race, so their ancestors predictions were ruled to be quite urate.
Yes, if the experiment were sessful.
But it failed.
How could research that arose out of greed seed?
Many people, including sorceers and researchers who participated in the project, were killed in idents during the various stages of the experiment, all for the Sacred Tree to beter recovered by elves.
Because all of the leaders whod nned the exploitation experiment on the Sacred Tree had perished in the process, the elves did not decide to retaliate at the risk of worsening their rtionship with humanshowever, this was already after the capitol and other nobles had already turned their backs on the family.
Since then, the familys wealth and influence had gradually begun to decline.
And there must have been other reasons apart from this.
But my father is hiding it.
Allen could figure out exactly whatter. However, he couldnt deny that this incident served as a sign of the beginning of their copse.
So
How should we behave?
In a way, it was quite natural for the family to have this reaction.
The elf in question had passed out, leaving only a request for assistance. Hes currently in a state of emergency and will therefore require about a week to return to consciousness.
If it was any other family, it wouldnt have been an event to be taken so seriously.
How does everyone believe we should respond?
But, because it was the Reinhart family, the news of an elfs arrival was an important matter requiring immediate action.
Gaielles grave eyes moved towards Allen and Julius. Presently, Allen had moved to the manors conference room.
With them, arge Knight Commander stood with his eyes closed, and Gardell, the head butler, stood with his head down.
The nature of the situation was urgent enough that the meeting, unable to be postponed even a minute, proceeded with only a small number of people.
Allen carefully examined Gaielles expression.
Did he not know of this beforehand?
Judging from his fathers reaction and Gaielles current attitude, it was possible that he didn''t know about this.
Does that mean that his insiders don''t know everything?
No, maybe they just didnt tell his father. Information was more valuable the fewer people knew about it.
But wouldnt you have asked for their assistance in advance under this type of situation?
If theyd had already told Gaielle, it would have been easier to resolve the situation.
Allensck of information about them made it difficult to gauge how many or how powerful they were.
Even so
There''s no problem with me taking the lead in this situation.
Hed been developing a n since hed read about future abilities in the ck book a few months ago. Theck of information about them did not throw a wrench in his prearranged n.
Allen opened his mouth one step ahead of Julius, who was reading a quest nkly.
First of all, Father, we dont know anything about the assistance they spoke about.
This used to be Juliuss go-to argument, but
This time, Allen Reinhart would be the one known to have proposed and insisted on this n first.
Gaielles eyes were set on Allen.
How is that rted?
Thats why
Allen thought of a few lines that influenced his n, which made him decide to take action.
In the Heavenly Forest, there lives a certain god.
A god who grants the wishes of, and gives opportunities to, those whoe to the forest.
Should they pass his reasonable trials.
The god that Julius called the hidden boss.
Allen needed that gods abilities.
We must ept their request for assistance.
Thats why Allen needed to take the initiative in this.
In addition to his hopes of finding his brothers whereabouts, Allen could trace Juliuss whereabouts without him having a clue.
Furthermore
This could be an opportunity for us.
Doing so could override what Julius did and prevent him from expanding his influence.
What did Julius say before?
Did he say that if you helped them first, that the elves would repay you?
Allenughed at the fact that, in the end, his argument wasnt much different from Juliuss.
Why do you think that?
After hearing Allens enticing pitch, Gaielle asked Allen about his intentions rather than answering immediately.
The ce where the elves are asking for assistance is towards the edge of our territory, closer to a neutral zone. There may be some danger. Would you like to proceed in spite of that?
Yes.
Gaielle stared at him with a strange look on his face. Allen wouldnt have been the type to say such nonsense.
Allenughed bitterly at his reaction.
If this had happened before
He might not have made this decision if he hadnt regressed and Julius hadnt been taken away.
No, he wouldn''t even have had to think about this, either.
Their rtionship with the elves had already gone awry, so Allen wouldve chosen to keep a quiet eye on the situation rather than give useless assistancebecause that was the sensible choice.
* * *
* * *
But
We should, rather, offer our support because we don''t know anything.
That was not what was happening right now.
Because we really dont.
The Knight Commander remained silent, as if he would follow anything Gaielle had decided, and Gardells wrinkled eyes threw a sharp look at Allen.
On the contrary, it means supporting the elves even though you know nothing.
Is there a reason why your y on words is meaningful?
Gaielle was right.
No matter how you presented it, whether it was offered with a funny little y on words, the dangers associated with the deed were unchanged. But if you knew what was going to happenif you knew the risks that may ur
Winning bes a sure bet.
Allen nodded at Gaielles words.
Yes, its meaningful.
What is?
We cantpletely reverse the damage done to our rtionship with the elves, however, it may be sufficient for the elves to see us again.
The elves would realize that the family was different from their ancestors.
Therefore, there would be elves who had a favorable outlook on their decision to helpmade despite the chance of there being a threat, despite the vagueness of the request.
It was a usible, dream-like story.
It was something you could only say, understanding that you didnt truly understand reality.
Did you even know who that elf is? Even if you went to help, what would that elf even need? Would you actually be able to help them? What would you do if you went to support but were stopped at the door?
All of that
Was all unclear, uncertain.
But if there were someone who just so happened to know about the future, and if there were to be any hope of finding out the whereabouts of his real brother
But for me
There was no reason to hesitate. Allen faced Gaielles gaze with pride.
This will have a huge impact on our rtions. An elf, a member of a race that despises our family, was sent to ask us for help directly.
The fact that the elves were willing to ask for assistance meant that they must have desperately needed help even if their only option was the Reinhart familya rtionship that was almost in the worst state possible.
But would the Reinharts thrust themselves into peril with no information?
This could be the beginning of the recovery of our rtionship with the elves, or, at the very least, it will give us a foot in the door to begin mending that rtionship.
Gaielle listened to Allens argument without saying a word.
We have no information, so should we blindly send them troops, regardless? No, that would clearly be a foolish choice.
How strong the enemy was, how many there were, what the current situation was, and even what had happenedthey don''t know anything, so what reason would they have to send aid?
Gaielle, however, with an unsatisfied face, said:
But is it worth walking into potential danger to get but a chance to improve our rtionship with the elves?
Neither Gardell nor the Knight Commander viewed Allens argument to be unrealistic.
Considering our rtionship with them, in particr, it may be better to wait it out a bit. But
Allen interrupted momentarily.
If there were no facts to back up this evidence, itd be no different from forcing ourselves into war.
But
What if we could figure out, to some extent, how to evaluate the state of things?
Allen wasnt as sloppy as Julius was in pushing things.
If we could better know who the enemy isif we could figure out what the situation is
Allen smiled coolly as he savored Juliuss enraptured expression.
What would you do?
Chapter 51
Chapter 51
Are you saying you know something?
As Allen spoke in a confident tone, he felt the eyes of everyone sitting inside turning towards him. He answered without dy.
The situation at hand is rted to the dark sorcerers.
How do you know that? No, wait
Gaielles eyes were filled to the brim with interest.
The Knight Commander finally opened his eyes without a word, and Gardell began to smile. Various emotions filled each of them: excitement, doubt, surprise.
The situation was, without a doubt, under Allens control.
Yes, when I went to Bergen the other day, I happened to hear of it from a merchant-group leader.
The truth was, Soned didnt know anythingbut it didnt matter whether he did.
All he had to do now was look good.
He told me he learned that dark sorcerers had begun to pop up near the Heavenly Forest.
Tell them what happened in the past.
And, as a result, the security of the Heavenly Forest was greatly tightened.
No, wait Alright, did you say you heard this from a merchant-group leader? Is your contact in a position in which they maymunicate with the elves?
After considering it all for a moment, he realized that Allen had a point and nodded.
Yes, this is what I think: perhaps, the elves hadnt intended to ask our family for help at all.
You have a point. Even our people know that were on bad terms.
And if it were a formal request, we wouldnt have only received one messenger. They must have had some sort of covert mission.
Wait, that means
Gaielle slowly murmured to himself after hearing Allens words.
The elf who asked for help wasnt sent alone?
Yes. Or, it could be that theres something blocking them, strong enough to make it difficult to send out a number of messengersit may have only been possible to get out alone.
Taking in all of Allens insight, Gardell thought of Eliza.
Is he really her son?
Gardell couldn''t believe Allen had analyzed this far from the fact that an injured elf had appeared.
Of course, Allen couldnt have done so without the information hed received from the merchant-group leader, but even the fact that he had that connection was reminiscent of her.
Yes, then it makes sense.
Obviously, thats all just my guess. But
Allen closed his eyes and recalled the feeling of affinity he felt in the Spring of Spirits to materialize a spirit.
Whoosh.
Theres evidence of more.
A swarm of rainbow-colored spheres appeared around him.
Is that a spirit?"
Gaielles stone-cold expression cracked for the first time.
Allen looked at the figure with a feeling of inner contentedness and opened his mouth. Yes, but I havent signed a contract yet.
How did you
He was well aware of Allens talent. Sure, he didnt know how to be sensitive or amiable, but to have an affinity for spirits
Thest time I hit a milestone in my magic training, there appeared to be a slight change in my body.
Gaielle looked unconvinced by Allens exnation but nodded anyway, still wanting to know more about the spirit present.
Incredible What does this have to do with what you said before?
I havent signed a contract, but I can still hear what this spirit says to some extent.
Allen looked at Gaielles expression, but the emotionless face had returned.
Dark sorcerers, battles, retreats, defeats, fires, monsters and a heavenly forest? Gods? I cant understand all of this.
Allen allowed the spirit to go as he made eye contact with his father.
In short, it is certain that there are elves in danger, and we can take advantage of that to encourage a significant turning point in our rtionship with them.
No one interrupted him while he spoke.
Even if that doesnte about, the fact that there are dark sorcerers near our territory is a good enough reason for us to subjugate them. And
Because there was no one here who would argue against his logical argument nor the basis of his argument.
Even if we dont gain anything significant in return, we have to go.
Signaling the end of his argument, Allen shared his final point.
If we can regain our influence on the territorial boundaries with the elves, that alone will mark the beginning of our familys revival from a public perspective.
Of course, if I cant show a different side of myself after this, that will be the end.
However, considering the achievements that Julius and Allen would make in the future, that wouldnt happen.
Its about saving the world.
With a cynical smile, Allen nced at the man whod be the future hero. Julius stared nkly back at Allen.
At the finale of his speech, the inside of the conference room turned static.
Gaielle closed his eyes, organizing his thoughts for a moment, and nodded slowly.
Yes, if you know your enemy and you can use that to your advantage then its worth a try.
Combining the given cluesthe elves attitudes, the presence of the dark sorcerer, and the present state of the Heavenly ForestsGaielle seemed to have already predicted the enemys strength.
Well then, Ill send you half of our knights and 300 ordinary soldiers. So, Allen, you may go with Julius to help you
W-wait!
Just as the meeting was about to end without a hitch, Julius shouted btedly.
Gaielles turned his curious gaze towards Julius.
To let it end without interrupting?
Of course he couldn''t do that.
Itd be a great opportunity to make an impression!
If I just follow Quests instructions, things continuing on as they are now would be advantageous
If he did that, hed be no better than a sidekick.
Julius didnt want anything like that.
Because I
Hed chosen the hero.
Are you saying that this is how youll decide? Without considering any opposing propositions?
There was a hint of embarrassment in the poor bastards eyes.
Why did the Quest tell me to step up?
To stand up for the elves despite there being no opposition from his family?
However, it was tooteFather, whod originally been opposed, now agreed with Allens argumentsand the Knight Commander and Gardell werent arguing, either. Things were going just as Allen had nned.
Gaielle opened his mouth with a puzzled face.
Do you oppose sending aid, Julius?
Allen stayed silent, still in disbelief that Julius made such a ruckus right before they closed the meeting.
Could it have anything to do with that?
When Gaielle secretly made eye contact with Laina, she bowed her head as if she didnt understand, either.
No, its just, it must be dangerous, so I thought it would be better to rethink it one more time.
Julius was about to go insane with embarrassment.
Why would it tell me to support them against the opposition of the family?
Obviously, that was what the Quest Window had said.
Didnt it ask him to restore their rtionship with the elves, and to take it even further by saving a god on the verge of ruin?
Julius also nned to find the hidden boss from the original story with the intention of contacting him.
But why?
Why was the plot progressing without him even having time to express the opinions that someone else had scripted out for him?
Did you not listen to Allens argument? Dark sorcerers have appeared in the Heavenly Forest.
We don''t know how strong our enemy is.
But without having to insist on supporting the elves, the meeting had already gone on without any resistance, and without putting in even a single good word, it was about to end.
It is not difficult to grasp the importance of the Heavenly Forest, our rtionship with the elves, and the background of our enemy, which has been identified to be dark sorcerers.
We wouldnt be without the support of the elves there, so I think itd be sufficient if we all worked together.
Having his argument disputed, Julius forced out a rebuttal. Even so, how can you guarantee that there wont be a stronger enemy than we expect? For example, if a band of pagans gets involved
Would they really just appear?
Allen asked with a hesitant look, as if he knew there was absolutely no chance, Julius Do you not trust your brother?
When Allen acted calmly yet disappointed, Julius clenched his teeth and shook his head.
No, I trust you and your information. But if that were to happen
As he spoke, the Knight Commander, whod been silent up until this moment, spoke in a deep, low voice. Our knights are not so weak.
But
Ill see to the battle myself, so you have nothing to worry about. Do you not trust me, sir?
I
The Knight Commanders strong, unwavering eyes turned to Julius.
Basil, the Knight Commander, is a real talent in the west. Itll be okay, Sir Julius.
Following him, even Gardell, the head butler, responded appropriatelyand Julius, who was trying to raise an some sort of objection, had no choice but to reply, with a single twitch from his lip. I-I suppose I am overreacting.
Seeing that the situation was now over, Gaielle shared his conclusion that he was unable to earlier.
Now that it has been decided to send our support, I understand that 300 soldiers and half of the knights, including the Knight Commander, shall participate, along with Allen and Julius.
Alright.
Julius, do you have anything else to add?
Allen looked at Julius with a discontented face and stifled augh.
No.
Then
Gaielle recited briefly.
Go on.
That signaled the conclusion of their emergency conference.
* * *
* * *
After the meeting, they immediately prepared to go to battle.
Allen watched the soldiers as they readied themselves in an orderly manner at the outdoor training ground. As they did, drivers hustled about and inspected their equipment.
Allen frowned for a moment when he saw them.
Tsk.
He had set aside his expectations of them since their silence about Juliuss idealshe could only hope to receive the same loyalty someday. He looked at them for a moment, disappointed, before turning his head away.
Then, he saw itat a ce a short distance away from the other knights.
Think about it. It may be beneficial for you toe under my wing.
Sir, I have no intention of supporting anyone else.
That''s not what I meant. Im discriminated against because youre here
Julius was talking to a person there. No, it would be more urate to say that Julius was just being pushy, rather than having any sort of conversation.
Allen watched the female knight, who had a neat appearance and ck hair.
Cami Carter.
The female knight who had given Linbelle a basic education, and a knight of the Familys Order.
And
The onlymoner in the Order.
Her father was one of the manors coachmen.
She happened to catch the eye of a former Knight Commander, who noticed her talent, and was able to join the knights
Shes being bullied.
She wasnt being insulted or beaten, but she was being ostracized by the other knights. Had she ended up under Juliuss wing in her previous life?
I cant recall.
At some point, her participation in Juliuss journey had ceased, so Allen knew little about her.
Because the number of Juliuss men who disappeared in such a way were countless.
No, Ive changed. Dont you know what my reputation is like these days?
I do know. But Im sorry.
Allen took some time to consider recruiting her, but gave up soon after.
Not now.
Her present role in Juliuss story was limited to her recruitment, and the right time to bring her under hismand was still a long way off.
I dont need to get into that quite yet.
The situation had to simmer for a little longer. Just like the other one, which was already beginning to look ripe for the picking.
I hope she does as well as I expect.
Allen didnt approach themnot so that he could create a certain future, but because hed be able to use them one day.
After another 30 minutes had passed like that, the soldier shouted.
Sir! All knights! The preparations areplete.
When Allen turned his head, the Knight Commander had already finished preparing and was riding a horse.
Hop on!
Allen smiled kindly and climbed on his horse.
Sorry for beingte.
The midday sun was still warming the ground, and the soldiers whod finished their preparations felt the discipline coursing through their veins.
The Knight Commander shouted out.
Then, lets go!
To battle!
After the knights chanted, the troops began to leave the manor.
This is just the beginning.
Allens eyes turned to the Heavenly Forest beyond the mountains.
The time hade to find a clue about his brother.
Chapter 52
Chapter 52
Gods were special beings.
They were different from the monsters you may have encountered on a venture into a nearby forest, but also significantly unlike any old invisible spirit.
They were quite literally spiritual beingsthe embodiments of certain concepts, wishes, and miracles that could not physically exist in reality.
Therefore, they had special abilities that could not be used typically, as well as many abilities that couldnt be rationalized usingmon sense.
Usually, they inspired natural phenomena to ur such as rain, or thunder and lightning but the powers of this young god were slightly different.
Trials and rewards.
This god possessed the ability to grant that which a person desired, should they ovee a trial proportional in difficulty to the desired reward.
Julius recalls a certain incident Heinel goes through during the novel. When he travels to the Great Forest
Each persons trial was different, and during one, the mind was moved to a different ce.
Time flowed differently from reality, and the difficulty level varied by person.
As the main character of the original work, he is able to ovee his trial and gains a new ability. Because the gods wish-granting ability is reminiscent of a game, readers call him the Hidden Boss
Fwomp.
Allen closed the ck book, repeating to himself what hed read and reread about the god.
The power to grant that which a person may desire.
That miraculous ability was the reason Allen decided to go to the Heavenly Forest.
In both his past life and in the present, there had been no rumor of any sort of god with an ability like that.
That must mean hed been hiding it.
Indeed, if word spread that he had this ability, then he would, naturally, be posed with new problems, and certainly more than just one or two.
Allen held the horse''s reins firmly against the mountains bleak wind.
Hang in there! We''ll be there soon!
Yes, sir!
Don''t lose sight of the person in front of you!
Yes!
The knights shouted loudly at the Knight Commander''s encouraging cry.
The destination of their journey, of course, was the forest wherein that young god residedlocated west of Elle Round, at the midway point of the pass leading through the Michent Mountains coniferous forests.
That very pass connected the Great Elf Forest to the Reinharts territory.
Legally, it was in a location that technically could be regarded as the familys territory, but the area was closer to a neutral zonefar from the city and, thus, geographically ambiguous.
The party moved as quickly as possible, mindful of the urgency of the elves request.
Moving hastily, they were able toplete the two-week-long journey in only five days, but the soldiers appeared to be worse for wear as a resultperhaps due to the strain said haste caused.
As they approached their destination, they were met with the harsh winter winds and the dreary atmosphere, making the soldiers feel at unease.
Even though they had arrived quickly, it would be difficult to fight in this condition.
The Knight Commander, perhaps sensing this anxiety, shouted out shortly before their arrival.
Everyone, lets take a break here!
Break! Everyone, stop!
With his announcement, the soldiers breathed out harsh breaths and opened their bottles. Even then, Allen didnt forget to stay vignt.
Aren''t you tired, brother?
He smiled reflexively and began, No, I''m more worried about soldiers than myself. What about you?
In fact, Linbelle and Inellia attended him from time to time, so he had no difficulty riding a horse. The soldiers must have suffered far more inparison.
I''m fine, too.
You didn''t look so happy when we left the house. Are you okay?
Leading his horse, Julius turned his head in the direction of Allens voice.
"I Yes, I am fine."
Julius''s eyes quickly scanned the air in front of him beforending on Allen.
I don''t see anything reflected in his pupils.
He couldnt find a physical trace of anything.
Allen continued the conversation, slightly regretful over that fact.
How about everything else? Your horseback riding skills have improved beyond recognition, when did you find the time to practice so much?
It was a little hard to be unable to wash up, but I can endure that much. And about horseback riding
Julius answered proudly as if his feat were nothing.
I practiced from time to time. Maybe my skills improved quickly because I have such a good memory.
Allen was dumbfounded by his answer.
Is he saying its a skill?
Perhaps it was because Allen knew that he had received help from the [System]. Allen felt embarrassed for Julius, given his ignorance of Allens own awareness.
[Horseback (C)] was a concept that Allen found difficult to understand, but he knew that it was something that supported Julius''s rapid growth.
Allen frowned as he turned his head in the direction of the Heavenly Forest.
Julius, do you feel anythinging from that direction?
The elf had arrived at the manor in a terrible state, yet they still hadnt encountered any foe thus far.
It''s not how I thought this would go.
As they headed to the Heavenly Forest, they were meant to be interrupted by the undead or monsters from time to time.
Or at least, that was what was supposed to happen, and that was the future Julius had foreseen.
Therefore, Allen frequently checked the reports from the scouting party, while extending his sensing power to examine the surrounding area.
But what about now?
What about the surprise attacks?
What about the swarms of monsters?
Where were the traps, and what were the dark sorcerers doing?
Hmm, what are you talking about?
Julius didn''t even know what Allen was saying. Even so, Allen didn''t show any sign of his rising frustration.
Think about it. What have we encountered on our way here?
What? Well, nothing Wait, why havent wee across anything?
With an expression showing that he finally realized, Julius, now suspicious, opened his mouth to speak, but then
Stop right there!
Humans!
No way, taking this opportunity to invade!
They could hear raucous cries rising from the direction of their scouts. Allen hurriedly sensed around and headed their way.
Brother!
Ignoring Julius''s cry, he continued monitoring and moving toward the scouts.
They had encountered a race that possessed an unchanging appearance, long ears, and skin like white jade, as well as a youth that refused to yield against time.
Speak! What are you doing here?!
The elves were here.
* * *
* * *
The situation was quickly resolved.
The soldiers knew that the only reason they hade in the first ce was to provide aid to the elves. They posed no threat to the soldiers.
The elves were the ones who reacted so extremely.
Because of the situation, the elves didnt let down their guard in spite of Allens ims that he and the others hade to offer their support. However, when Julius and the Knight Commander appeared and corroborated his testimony, they went back to report their encounter.
And so
I really didn''t expect you toe.
The first Princess of the Elf Kingdom, the child of the queen who oversaw the Great Elf Forest, came to greet them with only a few elves by her side. Her full name was longer and more verbose, but she identified herself simply as Natasha Hermannov.
First of all, I want to say that I''m sorry. I didn''t think you would ept my call for help I really didn''t.
She had a bitter look on her face as if she still could not believe it.
Keeping a certain distance from her weapon proved her confidence in them.
One of that bastards women.
There were always countless women gathered around Julius, and she must have been one of them.
So you asked for aid, but you didn''t tell the other elves?
Youve put it quite bluntly, but yes.
With a surprisingly calm expression, she acknowledged Julius'' words before exining to the visitors the reason they were here.
As a consequence of an important task currently being undertaken across the kingdom, it takes time to recruit troops Thus, I, who was in the vicinity, decided to take action.
What''s going on?
It was frustrating to know of Julius''s ns but not of the important secrets rted to it.
Even Julius didn''t seem to know what was happening, though, so there was no way Allen could understand.
I didn''t expect the survivors who fled the forest to view our situation as a mission in any way, as it was not an official mission sent by the Great Forest but thank you very much, regardless.
Natasha bowed her head as she said this.
However, no one there thought she had expressed her sincere gratitude.
If a man who had long been an enemy dered himself todays friend, how many people would ept that offer with an open heart?
Because you all said you would help, please follow me. We are waiting near the Heavenly Forest.
Just then, Juliuss eyes sparkled for a moment as he looked at Natasha.
Orange?
Julius hurriedly took a step closer and spoke to the newest orange talent he had discovered, long after first encountering Anya.
How about we talk on the way there?
But the moment he took a few steps
Donte any closer, scoundrel. I know your reputation well. Stay away from me.
She struggled to control her expression before spitting that out, bitter and venomous.
What?
I don''t want you near me unless were in public.
Julius was shocked into silence.
The knights were also stunned speechless for a moment, and Allen looked at Juliuss ridiculous figure like he was pathetic.
He never changes.
Allen couldnt believe he was always so swayed by that kind of guy.
But thinking about it, the [System] and the universes blessing were usually enough to mask Juliuss shorings.
The knights showed signs of difort, but they couldnt express it openly. They couldn''t ruin the work they had put in to improve rtions. However, they could not remain silent at the insult to Julius.
Basil, the silent Knight Commander, took a step forward as the knights stood silently, unsure how to act.
Princess Natasha, why were you waiting to enter the forest? Or rather, since you had arrived first, why was it not yet the right time to enter the forest is what Im trying to ask.
Was she up to something?
Julius looked back at the Knight Commander with surprised eyes at his open questioning of her intentions, but the knights seemed to be somewhat relieved at Basil''s dissatisfaction.
I
She looked at him and answered the question with a strange smile.
You''ll know when you see it in person.
* * *
Princess Natasha!
Your Highness, Princess Natasha!
Are you all right?
As soon as Allen and his party approached the borders of the Heavenly Forest with their soldiers, the nearby elves ran toward them.
The elves formed a standing barrier, apparently wary of the humans appearance.
Looking at them, he could see how the Reinharts reputation had spread among the elves when he saw the mixture of hatred and disgust in their eyes.
Trying to restore our rtionship with the elves
It would be ridiculous to assume that the matter could be resolved so quickly.
The emotions and tensions had built up over generations.
Faced with this, it seemed funny now, thinking back on their previous life when Julius had boasted that the elves would repay their kindness.
Its all nonsense.
Was it true that she searched for troops from nearby areas?
Natasha wouldn''t turn down their support because she was running scarce on military might.
Except for the Knight Commander, the knights all expressed their displeasure at the elves poor reception of them.
With the atmosphere noticeably deteriorating, Julius quickly intervened.
So, why are we waiting here?
Natasha silently pointed her finger.
There''s something in there
Julius looked with trembling eyes in the direction her finger pointed.
Huh? Huh? Is that?
By the time we first came here, the forest had already been this way for a long while.
A huge brown cliff No, a huge tree entangled upon itself had be a huge wall, blocking their view. Even Allen looked quite surprised at its appearance.
I thought it was a cliff face
Was that originally the Heavenly Forest? Was it normally possible to force a forest to grow that much?
Itspletely
The content had changed.
He hadnt been afraid of the future changing.
Many things were already different, so wouldnt it be wed to assume that the future would proceed as it had before?
The important thing was to use the new, changed future to ones benefit.
For my younger brother.
And for himself.
Allen''s eyes unfocused, his mind sunk deep in thought.
At the same time, Julius opened his eyes wide to see what he found.
That?
As he turned his eyes to follow Allens gaze, he saw dark red tentacles wrapped around the wooden wall. Julius unconsciously uttered what came to his mind.
Petrification.
Yes, that''s right. The Heavenly Forest is being siphoned offpetrified.
She nodded at him. Her words made those around her somber.
Then the elves in there
We came as quickly as we could after hearing the stories of those who escaped, but It''s probably toote.
Eyes turning cold at her words, Allen asked, Then the reason were here is because of that?
Yes, to destroy the dark sorcerers who are attempting to corrupt the divine, as well as to rescue the god left within.
I see.
The forest was halfway petrified already, so we were divided on how to proceed.
They werent discussing what to do; they were debating whether or not to retreat.
In truth, they were somewhat reluctant to enter with only the forces they had on hand.
Allen thought for a moment and looked at the wooden wall.
At that moment
Sir?
He looked back at Linbelle.
She tilted her head. In the anxious wringing of her hands and the trembling of her eyes, Allen could see the emotion she was trying to hide.
Only this time, I saw it right.
Nerves. Doubt. Anxiety. Frustration. Despair. Obsession.
Allen held Ves firmly. It may have been a littlete to say this, but nevertheless
This cant go on any longer.
Allen shook his head and called out to the Knight Commander.
Sir Basil.
Even if her future had changed, she herself had not.
Yes.
It doesn''t take much for a person to change.
Can you do it?
An opportunity.
A turning point.
With just a word of advice, a person could change.
I can do it.
Allen hoped she could pass this trial and move past it.
The Knight Commander was not so tactless as to misunderstand what Allen had meant.
She stepped toward the thick, tall, cliff-like wooden wall.
Then, please do.
Rumble, rumble.
Wait, what are you talking about Natasha hurried to ask a question as they stepped forward, concluding their cryptic conversation.
!!
But as Basil began to emit waves of overflowing power from his body, the Princess summoned the spirit and hurriedly retreated.
"Phew."
He had stopped at just the right ce.
The status of a warrior was not standardized like that of a sorcerer. They were those who used mana, who used prana, who possessed rare and godly powers.
People of that sort could not be ced into one neat category like sorcerers.
However, even without necessarily sharing the same characteristics, there were some obviousmonalities between them.
There really is no match for him in the western part of the kingdom.
No one couldpare to the Top Eight, to be sure. However, even when judged against all of humanity, he would belong to the top ranks.
Linbelle needs to see this.
A demonstration of power which she would someday surpass.
And another form of power for her to gain.
Chapter 53
Chapter 53
Until now, he hadnt cared because he thought she would awaken on her own, but not anymore.
Take a good look, Linbelle.
As he crouched down, Basil''s presence expanded.
Pure white prana swirled from his body and sprang from beneath his feet. The prana that emerged around his sword began to circle around him as well.
As she looked nkly at the scene before her eyes, Allen whispered softly to her, That''s prana.
Thats what it is.
Yes, noble, stubborn It''s a powerful force.
His sword burned bright like the sun, and the knights looked proud as their leaders waves of power grew increasingly strong.
Such a strong man
What a surprise.
He still possessed that kind of power?
The elves hummed, seeming surprised, but Basil concentrated on the huge wall, paying them no heed.
The white light, appearing nearly sacred at a moments nce, flickered about. Allen ignored all of that.
Its one of the powers youll soon possess.
There was an obsessive desire in her eyes, a hint of greed, and also
Me
Despair.
Can I really do that?
Her eyes fell with dreary despair.
You can.
That''s what youve always said.
She forced herself to hold Pure ck between her trembling hands and, in a hushed voice, said, Youve always told me that. Since the very beginning, and even now, too. I
You know what I always say? He cut her off. Prana is a noble power.
I know. How many times have you told me?!
That''s why I believe.
Her eyes red with frustration and disbelief.
That you can do it.
Prana was the type of power that responded to strong emotions or vowspower that could be infinitely strong should the user possess a strong will, yet power that could also be lost should the vow acting as its source be broken.
That you are enough.
Therefore, users who dealt in that power were more essential than anyone else.
That youre more capable of being noble than anyone else.
The same was true of the noble nature of prana. The very act of using prana proved that the will of the wielder held steadfast.
So you don''t need to worry. It wille so simply to you one day.
But
She justcked the motivation.
Shecked a powerful gust of emotion that could draw prana out, the fuel of anger that would have hastened her growth.
But if you''re having a hard time...
I!
Allen changed his mind at her demonstration of an excessive obsession with power, so different from his memories of her in his previous life.
You may quit.
She was momentarily lost for words, her eyes widening. What?
If his expectations went unfulfilled to the point that he abandoned them. If he found it difficult to even look at her as she continued to fail. She, of whom he had once expected so much
Its okay if you can''t manage to use prana.
What? Why? No, so everything I''ve done so far, all that effort
Linbelle looked up at him with surprise.
Seeing the confused look on her face, Allen realized that she had been deeply invested.
Is it because I I dont meet your standards?
No, Allen replied dispassionately, with an expression that said it was obvious.
Because it doesn''t matter.
What?
With your talent, it doesn''t matter if you can only use mana and not prana.
The n at the Academy wouldn''t go quite right, but what would it matter? He was a genius in the sword. He had no doubt that roughly the same result would be achieved.
So it''s okay not to rush.
He raised his head towards the source of bright light beaming on his face. When he moved his gaze, he saw the light bursting out of the Knight Commanders sword.
Even if you need to take a short break, therell be plenty of time afterward to continue.
Ah
As soon as she opened her mouth, the wooden wall was smashed by the pure white attack.
Loud cheers ensued.
Wow!!!
Sir Basil!
It''s been a long time since I''ve seen the Knight Commander use so much of his strength.
Linbelle sighed, quietly silencing Allen''s question.
He stayed by her side but never heard her answer.
Was it too much to expect her to change everything in an instant?
If she stayed the same after this, Allen would force her to master mana.
It would be far better to do that than let her continue struggling as much as she currently was.
Allen confirmed that Inellia was approaching them from behind and moved toward the Knight Commander.
Appearing surprised at the power of the Knight Commander, Julius looked at Cami for a moment before quickly heading over to congratte him. Sir Basil, that was really, really amazing. How do you feel? Do you need to rest?
This won''t interfere with the battle.
Julius took a moment to admire him before praising his chivalrous words. Did I hear that you were the Knight Commander, Basil? With that kind of skill, youre probably one of the strongest people here.
Natasha was surprised by the Knight Commanders strength, but quickly came to her senses, realizing that there were yers even stronger than him within the Great Forest.
By the way Natasha frowned when she saw the now unveiled Heavenly Forest. It''s more disgusting up close.
It''spletely distorted.
Just as she said, the Forest looked terrible.
From the pitch ck trees andnd, to the dead bodies of decayed animals scattered about, to even strange, mutated creaturesthe Forest was so damaged that it was impossible to even imagine how the original once looked.
Natashas ears twitched for a moment before she said to Allen, I can''t believe theres been no response of any kind to a disturbance of this severity Isnt that just bizarre?
Allen agreed with her.
It was understandable why they hadnt been attacked along the way. It mustve been to strengthen the defense here. However, the tree that used to surround the Forest had disappeared, yet no one even came to see what had happened?
Are their senses blocked?
Perhaps some measure of surveince had been undertaken, but that would only cover a certain range of sensing.
After thinking it over for a while, Natasha saw Julius and Basil beginning to approach them and replied, Lets split up.
She suggested dividing their forces, iming it would be too inefficient to stick together within the distorted Forest.
There may be some danger lurking within the Forest, but having thisrge of a group is inefficient as well. Given that, why don''t we apportion the number of people we have?"
With that excuse, her true intention was obvious.
Are you saying that going around together wont be enough?
There were only about 100 elves, and in the end, the suggestion to split their ranks was just a roundabout way to say that she wanted to search the Forest.
We are small in number, so you should allocate the forces under Sir Julius and yourself, Sir Allen
Just as Allen had expected, she left with the elves and appointed the two of them to make the decisions. Once she had finished, Julius immediately opened his mouth as if he had discovered the perfect opportunity.
Brother, Ill go with the Knight Commander. Do you mind?
Julius''s intentions were obvious to Allen, but he promptly allowed it.
The Knight Commander is loyal only to father.
He came into the family under certain termsid out by their father, taking the position as Knight Commander. Julius, unaware of this fact, would find this particr endeavor of his to be a fruitless one.
I dont, but then, it wont matter if I take eight knights with me, right?
Go ahead.
Allen took eight of the fifteen knights and divided the soldiers into two groups of 150.
Youre so spineless.
Julius appeared anxious about whether Allen would choose Cami. Despite knowing this, Allen had no intention of messing with him further, so he chose from the group without much care.
Their role would be to do nothing more than search and shield him, anyway.
Are you finished? Natasha asked when the division of personnel wasplete.
To start, whoevers the first to find the dark sorcerer or the god should send out a signal.
Then we can learn where each party is located, yes? She beckoned, and an elf waiting next to her handed her a small purse. Throw this in the air, and it will be visible from afar.
What is this? Basil asked while looking at the small purse.
At the same time, Julius mouthed a few words to himself.
Seed Ball oon?
It would be best to demonstrate it to you in person. If you throw it up like this
She lightly tossed a handful of light-green seeds up in the air. Ascending in a straight line into the sky, they gradually decelerated as they surpassed the height of the wooden wall.
Boom!
The seeds exploded with a spectacr and startling roar.
The knights were flustered by their first experience with the seed explosion, but quickly regained theirposure when the elves showed no sign of being at all startled. They seemed familiar with it.
All you do is throw it, so it won''t be difficult to use.
She distributed the seeds to Allen, Julius, and the other knights in a business-like manner, as if she had low expectations of them.
All kinds of threats may be awaiting you within the Forest, so if you find anything, please signal immediately. Well then
A spirit so powerful that Allen couldnt even imagine daring to contract it arose from her body and wrapped around her.
Well go ahead of you.
As soon as she finished speaking, the elves quickly disappeared into the hole created by the wooden walls destruction.
Even if the forest was half-petrified, they wouldn''t have difficulty searching if they were familiar with the geography of the Forest.
I doubt theyll really send a signal.
When they disappeared, Julius looked at Allen and began, Then Ill aim for the center, Brother.
His eyes lingered on a particr spot in the air.
Are you using the mapping function of the [System]?
Julius quickly left with seven knights and half of their soldiers along with the Knight Commander.
He had his memory of the novel, too, so hed be able to find the location of the dark sorcerer on his own. Even if he didnt remember, he would find a clue soon. He was just that kind of guy, after all.
A knight next to Allen spoke as the group representative. Where would you like to go, sir?
The elves would move based on their knowledge of the Forests originalyout.
Julius would use the [System] to find the dark sorcerer.
Well then.
Should they simply search around until they found something, or should they search the Forest based on information from the ck book?
We will
Just as Allen was about to tell them his decision
Wait, wait. Over there! Please go that way.
Ves suddenly cut in, breaking their unwritten rules.
* * *
* * *
Ahhhhhhh!
Please Please kill me
Please, please, please, please, please let me live, please.
A life vanished with an endless scream.
Urgh grk.
Plop.
Another body sucked of all its vitality scattered across the Forest floor. Having sacrificed yet another elf, Carnell turned his head nervously.
What did you say?
The intruders have finally entered the forest.
Already? I thought theyd be stuck outside for a day at the very least
Carnell was annoyed by the news that his n hadnt gone as expected.
I cant believe those Reinhart guys are supporting the elves. And the fact that they arrived this quickly?
It was strangeoutright bizarrethat those who had been on such terrible terms joined forces, that they had moved so quickly. Almost as if they knew his current ns.
Did they figure it out? No, that couldn''t be?
rmed that they were being monitored, headquarters even gifted them an artifact to block the view of the spy a few days ago.
Heavens Eye could not be prevented with this kind of artifact, but it was possible to at least muddy the owners view.
Even if it werent possible, if this ce had been scouted out, he would have been able to feel someone''s gaze
Is there something wrong?
When he turned his head toward the weighty voice, he saw a figure dressed in gloomy ck armor approach.
No Everything is alright. So far.
The ambush they had nned out was being prepared, sending those carrying out the raid into the mountains.
And now, in a little while, their work with the god would beplete.
Even so
Am I a little nervous?
Regardless, Carnell felt a sense of foreboding. Yes, this this was
Absurd.
It was anxietya feeling that no matter what he did, he would face a predetermined ending.
Absurd?
Yes. He collected his thoughts. Marlock, when was the first dark sorcerer overthrown?
Maybe four months ago?
Yes, thats the problem. Carnell should have noticed the abnormality back then. Isn''t it strange?
What is?
Were the ceremony proceedings held in the West so dire that it was necessary for the Duke to do something about it?
No, it wasnt.
They had focused on the vigers rather than the cities, kidnapping older people or women before going after the healthy young people. They inflicted not a curse, but rather, a chronic disease. That way, it looked more like a natural death than anything else.
But somehow, the Reinharts found out, and got away with killing a dark sorcerer for their troubles.
Isn''t that just a coincidence?
I thought so, too. Until now.
Then what about the woman who was freed from the curse?
Was she a coincidence, too? No, for amoner to escape a curse in the first ce? By luck?
That is Marlock couldnt answer.
However, Carnell continued as if he didn''t care to hear his answer. And then it kept going.
After the curse had spread, he returned and killed the witch.
Now, less than a week after their ceremony began in the Heavenly Forest, troops had been dispatched.
What about this time? Should we stop the ceremony just before itsplete? Or should we go ahead and destroy the boundary now?
As Carnell repeated his doubts, Marlock couldnt refute him. Noticing thetters silence, Carnell''s eyes turned to the dark sorcerer standing awkwardly by his side.
How far have theye?
The dark sorcerer stiffened when those crazy eyes swung his way.
Well, thats
Hurry up and tell me.
Theyve divided themselves into three groups
Now.
Carnell''s eyes turned cold, and the dark sorcerer knelt straight down and shouted, One of the human factions has reached where our people are gathered, and the elves are heading toward the center of the forest! The other humans are going there!
There?
His eyes sparkled with interest as he removed the heart from the body lying on the forest floor.
Did it seem like they knew?
I dont know!
Hmm Well, its good that theyvee crawling to their own demise.
It was a byproduct of the experiment that was run before nning the fall of the godsomething forcibly sealed away after the death of the chimera sorcerer who performed said research. After the sorcerers disappearance, they couldn''t handle it, so they sealed it and had no intention of stopping the intruders if they went to that ce of their own ord.
What are you going to do?
Hmm Carnellughed and looked back. There, the god the size of a small hill was half-ck and struggling. It''s all about him.
Bang.
Clean up your technique right now!
Hurry up and bring more offerings!
Please save me, save me Hrrk.
The god would soon be the devil of legenda tale he himself had wroughtthe spearhead for their holy war.
In order to do that
Release all the servants. Have them deal with those intruders. And try to lure the others to their destination in secret.
U-understood!
The dark sorcerer rushed out to fulfill his order with a skull-decorated cane.
Marlock, you go to the ce where our people are gathered and stall for time. For as long as possible.
Alright.
Marlock nodded gravely at his orders without objection.
Carnell turned his head when Marlock disappeared to carry out his orders.
If this n goes awry too, then
His eyes turned dark.
That cannot happen.
He shouted at hispatriots in a covetous voice. Tell everyone except for the minimum number of people required for the ceremony.
For his sake, there would be no mistakes.
The time has finallye.
Even if they had to pay with their lives.
"Hell-Critica."
For all those who worship.
Chapter 54
Chapter 54
Quickly, that way! Go that way!
What? Allen responded, forgetting that there were other people around him. Her voice had juste as that much of a surprise.
Sir, what are you talking about?
Hearing Allens shocked words, the knights cast him doubtful looks.
Allen shook his head and quickly replied, Im looking around the forest using magic. Can you all be quiet for a moment so I can focus?
Yes, sir.
In an instant, the knights wentpletely silent. Allen, no longer concerned with them, narrowed his focus to Ves.
He had only one thought upon hearing her: Why?
His question was why she would speak.
There was a simple reason as to why she kept her mouth shut when there was someone else around or when he was talking to someone else.
Because he had no other means tomunicate with Ves.
If he mixed up the two conversations while talking to another person, he would just look like a madman.
So Allen made her promise to keep quiet in front of others.
I''ll tell you everythingter! Come on, just go that way!
Their unwritten rule
Hurry!
was broken at that moment.
Cant you listen to me just once?
She tried to remove herself from his hand, as if she could go alone if Allen didn''t move.
Tapping Vess rattling handle a couple of times until she stopped moving, Allen opened his mouth to speak. "Everyone, follow me."
The expectant eyes of the knights turned towards him. "Did you find anything?"
"Yes, looking at it through my magic there are a few things of interest.
"Whoooaaa!"
The knights were untrained in magic, so they all instantly agreed with him. Seeing signs of Allen taking action, Ves calmed down.
I really will tell you everythingter. So please just go for now.
Although she had stopped wriggling around, she continued to speak.
First, head to that pointy tree over there.
Allen nodded modestly and moved in the direction indicated by his sword.
After that, the knights shouted loudly behind him and the soldiers followed.
"Let''s go, everyone! Keep your guard up!"
"Yes, sir!"
And so, their search in the Forest began.
* * *
Allen swung his sword at a monster running toward him. The powerful de split an orcs two-headed body in half.
His threads spun together around the head of an approaching gnoll before it exploded from a shock wave, scattering debris through the air.
After entering the forest under Ves''s guidance, monsters began to attack, just as Allen had expected.
Is everything stationed here?
Allen watched the bloody war proceed.
"Block the rear attacks!"
"Don''t scatter ranks!
"Hold on! There''s a knighting up from behind for you!"
They werent in too bad of shape.
The soldiers stayed calm, defending themselves from the attacks. The monsters couldn''t keep pace with the knights who had readied themselves against such threats.
Soon enough all the monsters were wiped out without any human casualties.
"Four wounded! No casualties! All injuries are minor, so they can all continue fighting!"
Gather round!
They continued further into the forest under Ves''s guidance.
Slightly to the right of the pit ahead!
Monsters kept attacking themchimeras, zombies, skeletons, and even more bizarre monsters.
Ignore the pile of rocks in front of you, just go up!
In the already somewhat petrified Forest, the faint smell of sulfur began to thicken to the point of physical pain, and bizarre monsters with deformities such as far-reaching legs ornd-adapted tentacles appeared.
Allen began to feel suspicious as they continued deeper.
These monsters
As they moved closer to their destination, the number of the attacks began to decline.
He was only able to notice it after a while because of how gradual it was, but at some point, the frequency of monsters appearing had drastically decreased.
The soldiers seemed relieved to realize it, but it made Allen tense.
There are only this many?
That couldnt be.
The event as he remembered it had to be dealt with by the powers of the county. In other words, it wasnt meant to be an easy task, something taken care of without any casualties.
Allen fell deeper and deeper into thought.
Excluding dealing with the god, the current troops should be sufficient. But was the task really this simple?
As he kept thinking, the party proceeded to their destination under Ves''s guidance.
With a rotten waft, a smell shuddered through the branches of the twisted trees.
Even the flesh of the mushrooms plopped to the ground, making the knights shake from the ever-growing feeling of doom and muggy death as they headed to their destination
It almost feels like a trap
Just as Allen made that vague prediction about the enemy''s intentions, Ves shouted out.
It''s right here!
Had they already arrived?
At her words, Allen stopped ruminating and raised his head. There stood an empty and ransacked lot, messy as if it had been destroyed by something with great force.
Around it, an obviously artificially created building appeared. And in the middle of the open space
"Grrr"
There was a huge monster at least five feet tall, with six arms bulging with muscle.
"It''s a giant!"
The giant howled, revealing its innards to be a terrible skeleton with a fully sewn body hanging about, connected loosely by threads.
"Grrraaah!"
The forest quaked, making its avian inhabitants flee. The soldier who shouted earlier covered his mouth with a frightened expression. As the knights rushed at the giant, the giant began to rush back at the knights.
Huh? Huh?
Through the confusion
Ah.
Ves uttered a devastating exmation, as if they were facing the impossible.
* * *
* * *
Julius made his way through the Heavenly Forest without hesitation. There was no trace of doubt in his steps, and only confidence showed on his face.
"Sir, do you know where you''re going?" Cami, forced to sit next to Julius on his order, asked him with a look of anxiety.
Although no one else spoke up, they were all curious about his confidence. He was acting like he had discerned a clear path to their destination.
"Yes."
"So you mean you know where the enemy is?
She looked at him with doubt.
Stop the dark sorcerer trying to take control of the god! Save the god within the time limit! Time remaining: 00:04:11.
Reward: the god''s favor, ???
Of course, it was because he already knew everything. But he couldn''t answer like that.
Julius brought up the convenient excuse that hed been usingtely. "Yes, I looked into the Heavenly Forest back at the manors library.
"Oh! How impressive, Sir Julius!"
"You are thorough, Young Master Julius!"
The other knights looked relieved at his reply, and Cami, too, began to regard in a new light this seemingly reformed scoundrel.
"So don''t worry. At the very least, we won''t be getting lost," Julius recited, listening to their praise.
Open the map.
Turning to the air, he saw the System [map] that had appeared a few days ago.
On thepass-shaped radar, red dots which he believed to symbolize the location of the dark sorcerers were gathered up ahead.
"If the monsters don''t block our way, it should take maybe 30 more minutes to reach them? But don''t let your guards down."
"Yes, sir."
Cami murmured quietly to herself, questioning whether or not she was impressed by him. "You really are thoroughly prepared."
"Now do you feel likeing under my tutge?
"I''ll give it some more thought."
Although Julius took the opportunity to try to persuade her one more time, Cami refused sharply. However, the strength of her answer was somewhat weaker than before.
I just need to push her a little more.
She would have been easier to convince if only Lord Byron or Anya were there.
They each had their own issues to sort out, so he couldn''t bring the two. Only his maid, Laina, followed him like a shadow, but Julius was not concerned by their absence.
This should be easy.
Beforeing, he was a little unsure despite the presence of all of the soldiers, not to mention the knights. But once Julius saw the Knight Commander''s attack right in front of his eyes, he had no doubt that this would end without a hitch.
He knew who the enemy was. He knew what kind of scheme they were going to set up, and he knew what they were doing it all for. And although he hadn''t seen this ying out in the novel, he also had fairly strong knights in his party. Lastly, he was capable of purification, which could cancel out most ck magic.
At this point, itd be absurd to consider the possibility of failure.
I''m going to beat the Hidden Boss and improve the effects of [Iridescent Eye (S)].
He hoped monsters wouldn''t continue to emerge since there wasnt much distance left between them and their target.
Had he jinxed it?
Swoosh.
Suddenly something appeared from the side.
He instinctively twisted around. A gnoll ferociously baring its teeth had grazed his side. As soon as he swung his sword, its head rolled on the floor, unable to avoid the sh.
"Young master!"
When he turned his head to the knight''s cry, a steel bird fell to the ground.
"We''re under attack! Get ready!"
"Sir! The birds from the sky!
Looking up at the sky, silver birds plummeted, their eyes turning red.
"I''ll take care of it!"
Julius immediately summoned up his mana. A dark blue current ran through the sword. A crackling current covered the sky.
The flock of screaming birds instantly fell to the ground.
Plop, plop, plop.
"Are you all right, Young Master?"
"I''m all right. How are the soldiers?"
"Thanks to your quick judgment, the damage done was minimal."
When he turned his head, he saw soldiers blocking monsters approaching from the left and right with calm expressions.
"Then I will go to assist them, sir
After confirming Julius''s safety, Cami spun around again and would have tried to move towards the monsters battling the other soldiers
Pat.
had it not been for his touch on her shoulder.
"What are you doing?"
"Do they need any more support?
"Of course they do
Crash!
"Raaaah!"
She looked away in a hurry, finding that the monsters she had been aiming for were now chopped into six pieces, already thumping to the forest floor.
Most of the monsters that had surrounded them were quickly being sorted out, unable to endure the Knight Commander''s blows.
"I think the Knight Commander can handle it".
"But I''ll still have a job to do."
She ignored Julius''s dissuasion and left to deal with the remaining monsters. After all, that was the part she was meant to y.
"You''re too good."
That was why he wanted to have her on his side.
To Julius, extras didnt matter, but it was different when it came to her.
Could we at least consider each other colleagues by this point?
Julius shrugged and checked the map.
There wasnt much time left before they would be dealing with the dark sorcerers.
But something about the map was strange.
"Why is the red dot right next to us
"Go to hell."
Goosebumps erupted across Juliuss skin. His response to the sudden event was too slow. Why were they here? Why did theye to attack so suddenly? His thoughts flowed sluggishly.
If I keep waiting around like this, theyre going to attack me first.
He bent down as low as he could. The dark blue electric current covered his body in an instant as he raised his sword. However, it was toote. If only hed found them first, he wouldn''t have been pushed back at all.
''Im such a loser.
Julius''s angry gaze turned to the attacker.
Just as his sword came crashing down, about to split his attackers head into two
Bang!
A sh of white light countered the water-blue sword.
"Get back, sir."
"What a waste."
Gasp!
Julius quickly stepped back on the Knight Commanders instruction, wiping off his cold sweat.
Following the attack, the knights rushed to Julius''s side.
"Sir, are you all right?"
"Are you injured at all?
Julius couldn''t hear them.
The back of his neck was ice cold. As he hurriedly checked the map again, drowning in anxiety, he witnessed red dots rapidly approaching their location.
"Oh my fucking god!
"Sir, what are you!
Just as the knights expressed their surprise at his swearing, ck balls of fire came crashing down from the sky, apanied by a rough tremor from deep below the ground.
Rumble, rumble!
"Get in formation, everyone! Herees the dark sorcerer!"
The soldiers and knights, hesitant from being caught off guard by the sudden change in their situation, came to their senses at his cry.
"Stop them!"
"Kill them all! They''re dark sorcerers!"
Monsters poured down from all sides, as all the red dots appeared in front of them. Curses and other products of ck magic fell from the sky, and an unidentified dark knight and the Knight Commander collided.
Give your all!
"For the people!"
"Give your life!"
Julius cut an approaching ghoul in half.
Fuck.
Things were starting to go wrong.
* * *
Natashaughed quietly as she heard the explosions from within the forest.
"Princess, shall we send help?
"Dont mind them, Jane. They haven''t even used the seeds yet.
Natasha had no intention of moving until they gave a signal, regardless of their so-called dire condition or potential inability to signal for help.
''No, even if they did give me a signal.
If they couldn''t ovee a single battle, then there was no point in heading over to support them.
"Remember, Jane. Our goal here is to rescue the young god."
"My apologies, it was a slip of tongue."
"It''s alright. They had such a strong man with them, so they''ll surely resolve the current threat on their own. As for us"
As she cast her eyes to the side, she watched dozens of elves concentrating on the back of the person in front of them.
"Finding the location of the god is more important than rooting out one dark sorcerer."
Over the heads of the elves, a small humanlike figure resonated with something and roared silently, pointing in a single direction.
"Anyway, thanks to them, the enemy has been somewhat weakened
She would have to thank themter.
Natasha stepped on a branch, erasing from her mind Julius''s face, which had popped up for a moment.
"Go. Before it''s toote."
"Yes, princess."
As she headed in the direction where the god was supposed to be, dozens of elves silently walked behind her atop the trees.
Chapter 55
Chapter 55
The giant looked strange.
Allen hadid eyes on the remains of one before. Though bones were all he''d seen, those alone were enough to know that the being who had left them behind was a giant.
But the giant before him was different from what he''d imagined.
Its eyes, nose, and mouth were all threaded together with half-taut threads. The sights visible through the gaps in the thread were horrible. Scattered across the enormous body were abundant traces of failed sutures and surgeries, andmost notably of allthe giant didn''t have just two arms.
There were six in total.
Considering the appearance of the remains he''d seen before, the giant present before him now was surely an impossible sight. It could be that this was some variant of giant that Allen did not know of, but he put such a possibility aside.
If it weren''t impossible, Ves wouldn''t have reacted like that.
Allen nced down and checked on her.
Ah.
She still hadn''te to her senses since seeing the giant, as if she''d seen something she was never meant to see.
The ever-loud Ves muttered to herself in a shocked, empty voice, There''s no way. No There shouldn''t be any left.
They were meaningless words.
Allen turned away, vowing to ask her about itter.
"Ahhhhh!"
A knight flew across the sky from the giant''s attack.
Crash! Crash! Bang!
The flying knight was lodged into the ground after tearing through some trees. Fortunately, the knight was still breathing as the soldiers approached him. However, it seemed as though it would take more time for him toe to his senses.
"Split up and attack! It can''t hit us all at once!"
"Sir! Liam is!"
"Liam is alive, so shut up and concentrate!" the senior knight shouted at his agitated junior, raising his shield.
Thud!
Urgh. Even though he had strengthened his body with magic, his wrist almost broke. The knight broke into a cold sweat, seeing the damage done to his now crumbling shield.
The giant was strongso strong that their top forces, the ones that solved all manner of problems in the territory, were struggling. Its steel-like body wasn''t damaged at all by most attacks. Even if it so happened that the best-case scenario urred and an attack injured it, its wounds quickly healed and regenerated.
With its huge size and the attacks thrown from its six arms, the giant brought their mission progress to a halt. It was difficult for even the most elite of their soldiers to make any ground in such a fierce battle.
If they didnt intervene in the right way, they could easily get both their colleagues and themselves hurt. However, if the giant was to be taken down, then there would most certainly have to be a great deal of sacrifice.
No matter how much Allen disliked the knights, it''d cause quite a bit of trouble if he lost them all.
They still had to hang in there.
''Just until Julius and I get stronger.''
Even if he didn''t like it, he couldn''t deny that they had worked hard for the county so far. Though he could separate his private and public matters, he would keep tabs on those who had taken Julius''s side after his change.
''I can''t say that their actions are selfless.''
The strength within his body transformed itself into great power. Allen forcefully kicked off the ground, releasing all of the power he had been suppressing in one go.
Thud!
The ground crumbled under his strong, fully powered steps.
At that same moment, a knight attempted a dangerous attack right in front of him.
The giant''s heavy fists fell with a loud roar.
''Will it be hard to beat?''
No, he''d be alright.
As Allen took measure of his opponent, the senior knight clenched his teeth, having endured the giant''s attack.
''This is insane.''
Already, three knights had been subdued and sent flying away by the giant''s blows. How many times had their shields been blocked and turned into lumps of scrap metal already?
"Damn it."
It would have been different if the Knight Commander were there with them. He reminisced for a moment on his level of abilityabout equal to that of an ogrebefore erasing him from his mind.
"Grrraaaaah!"
The giant rushed at him, ignoring the other knights as if itd finally been set off, growing annoyed from dealing with the same attack yet again.
Allen moved to strike. His shield squeaked and groaned harshly, itself now turned into scrap metal on the verge of copse, and his wrist had be numb from the same attack.
"Cough, damn it."
The plummeting attack made his hands and feet feel tingly. The knights couldn''t interfere with the rough giant''s momentum at all. With every step, the ground trembled and became littered with the wreckage from unsessful attacks.
And the second that his shield broke
ng!
A wind arose.
"Get behind me, I''ll take care of it."
Having approached the rest of the forces, Allen stopped the attack. The startled senior knight answered unconsciously, "But"
"Don''t you know how much I can handle?"
Could the Dukes firstborn son have been saying that he wasn''t fit for his position? The senior knight couldn''t muster the energy to say the words that had caught in his throat.
Boom! Boom!
Because Allen was standing on equal ground with the giant.
The air zinged with the giant''s attack. Its heavy fists were strong enough to smash bone and crush steel.
Allen had no intention of backing down from such an attack.
"Come on!"
"I see."
At this sight, the senior knight no longer hesitated and stepped back.
As he stepped down, Allen focused his eyes on the giant. He pictured the giant''s movements in his head. Watching the fierce battle with the knights proceed naturally reminded him of the giant''s strength.
''He''s at least as strong as an ogre.''
Perhaps a knight would fare well enough, but he couldn''t be certain that he would be capable of dealing with this until he reached rank 5.
* * *
* * *
The giant screamed and waved its huge fist at Allen who confronted him, unafraid. The monster targeted him, nevertheless.
If this were his previous life, he would''ve been killed with a single blow.
That''s how it would''ve been in the past, but now?
He remembered his time at the ruins. The movement of his sword, descending without end, had long permeated his unconscious, and the secret that Ves learned began to unfold through his sword.
The Allen of now was not the same man.
Jotunnsverd. First order.
A human''s strongest attack was one sourced from rage.
Managarmr.
Amplified by mana, power drawn from his whole body was forged in fury. The skill''s ferocious descent seemed to scream rage, as the name suggested.[1] The sword, lit in red and imbued with mana, elerated downward.
Ves fell upon the giant''s chest instantaneously.
Whoosh.
Even the giant''s tough skin could not stop Ves''s de.
The eyes of the giant turned red. It screamed loudly like it was unfamiliar withwhat seemed to Allenthe pain of its heart splitting. Blood burst from its sewn-together lips.
He didn''t expect it to be so fragile.
The giants eyes were stained with murder. The bleeding quickly stopped, and its muscles regenerated. With his senses, Allen felt the giant''s muscles contracting violently. Four hands flinched.
They were simr, but different. Where did it get the other four giant-sized hands? Where did the giant evene from in the first ce?
"Sir!"
Having watched the encounter, the senior knight shouted out. But he knew. The realization stopped him in the middle of his thought. The sorcerer''s decision-making was not to be disturbed under any circumstances.
Allen''s shadow wriggled.
The shadow of this messy world was immeasurably infinite.
If the First Order revealed the best type of attack in any situation, the Second Order revealed the best n to create an opening that could be attacked at any time.
Jotunnsverd. Second Order.
Ylfaskadus.
The shadows danced with a piercing wail.
As he took one step, a shadow rose and followed. Two, three, four As Allen took more and more steps forward, the number of shadows increased, dancing together. The giant''s eyes couldn''t track him.
Allen remembered Ves''s teaching as he spread out his threads.
Since when does it matter if it''s right? Just trust me.
She was quiet at the moment, but normally she would have chirped at him something just like that. She always urged him not to avoid every attack, saying that getting hit a good number of times would help him grow as a person.
Unfortunately, Allen preferred to do the opposite.
The utilization of mana required a concept within the imagination to be refined. The dragon''s core inside him cried loudly, and the threads that upied the space began to intertwine.
Space, Sound, Vibration, Shock, and Spirits.
The thousands of threads spooling out from his body eventually became one. The threads made bells, ringing through the whole space.
Within that storm, thunder broke out
Crash!
His eardrum burst as he faced the noise head-on. A tree caved in from a soldier''s violent outburst as he writhed in pain.
He''d recover soon. All Allen wanted was to create one gap.
He analyzed the difference between him and his foe.
A giant. It was clear that it truly was a giant like Ves, no matter howrge and no matter how many more arms it had.
Therefore, he would have to do his best.
Jotunnsverd. First Order. Managarmr.
A furious de tore through the giant''s joints. From Allen''s sword, a fluttering shadow arose as dozens of swords whacked the giant''s skin from all sides.
The giant backed away, gripping its broken joints.
Despite all of this, Allen did not let down his guard. He didn''t think the giant would fall apart to this extent.
''This should be enough to gain the upper hand.''
He watched its regeneration and aimed to distractanother explosion charged directly into its eardrums to confuse it, another hit to its joints.
And yet, the giant was still alive.
Constantly regenerating its torn veins, screaming against the one-sided violence.
The soldiers backed away at the sight.
''Just how did he do all of that to such a monster?''
The senior knight watched the battle with vacant eyes. In fact, right after Allen had stepped in, he considered retreating, but had no choice but to rid himself of the thought upon witnessing Allen single-handedly overwhelm their foe. It wasnt just himself, but all the soldiers.
They all were so intent on watching the battle that they couldn''t find any way to intervene.
''It appears that Sir Allen is by no means below Sir Julius.''
The senior knight naturallypared the overwhelming power he''d seen from the Young Master Julius in the capitol the other day with that of Allen he was witnessing in the present.
Well, the fact of the matter was that this knight actually had pretty poor eyesight, so he couldn''t be totally sure how their battle was going, however, Allen''s current appearance reminded him of the Knight Commander after taking down an ogre.
''On either side, it''s a monster.''
A bitter smile spread across his face as he realized that the level of power he was observing was one that he would never be able to attain himself.
"Grrrrrrraaaaaaah!"
The monster, already buried in the remains of the crumbling building in the vacant lot, made a fearful face for a moment before it roared outan expression of its determination to no longer back down.
Allen stopped moving at the sight.
It wasn''t because of the roar itself, but because its wound hadn''t recovered. The giants whole body was stained with blood. And so, he finally realized
Is it done already? Did it already use all of its regenerative power? This fast?
It didn''t matter. Allen moved. Ylfaskadus. For a moment, his mana drained to the point of straining his core.
The giant trembled with its overflowing desire for murder. The ground cracked beneath its feet, its six heavily swinging arms generated whirls of wind.
He could feel itits gaze, fazed and mingled with fear, peering out from a warped face along with its struggle hidden behind the mighty force of its blows.
But it wasn''t just a feeling. All the information flowed into Allens head. The giant wasn''t weak. However, his ability gave him an advantage over it.
After a certain point, a sorcerer might as well just be a god.
It was meaningless to know how strong a giant was or how it would move, no matter what ability it possessed.
The giant''s rising power violently collided into the ground, decimating it. Clumps of dirt scattered about, and the wind from the impact blew all the way over to Allen, whistling through his hair.
Despite its surging arms, Allen strolled slowly forward.
He stepped in cadence to a slow beat.
ck remnants fluttered in the scattered clouds produced by running feet, and a human figure approached at a slow pace in the clearing left behind by the recent collision.
The giant''s six arms fell upon him, crushing the shadow.
Smaller shadows scattered and floated through the explosions of earth.
Managarmr.
One of the shadows became a sharp sword, its refined strikes attacking from the front, back, left, and right. The ultimate strike rained down like a heavy downpour.
Nevertheless, the giant swung its arms, not ready to give up.
The ground shook with a single punch, crushing the surrounding terrain, and Allen''s skin stung from the attack.
However, it wasn''t enough to take him down.
Allenhiding in the shadowhad no form, and the pursuing giant''s hand searching through the air could do nothing but hover in the empty space.
The giant''s flesh shook. The strung-together leather of his skin slid off.
Yet the giant did not back down.
Allen might''ve expressed doubt earlier, but it didnt give up.
He swung his swordrighteously, concise and strongjust as she''d taught him.
Just because it''s not as necessary for you to master skills doesn''t mean you shouldn''t aim for points of weakness.
He recalled Ves''s teachings once again. Allen had never forgotten her lessons, which she''d taught him every morning.
It''s something you''ll really have to watch out for, so take a stab at it whenever you can!
First, he''d aim for the ankle.
Isn''t it silly to know of weak points but not aim for them?
Next, the armpit of the uppermost arm. The inability of that top arm to move would interfere with the intended movement of the lower arms.
But it would be fatal to act in haste. He had to wait for the right opportunity.
Emerging through the shadows hovering over the giant and swinging out from beyond its field of vision, he split theyers of tough leather covering its ankles.
As the giantnow disoriented and lost for bncereached out its arm and pressed them against the forest floor, Allen prated its armpit with his sword from below.
Next, its head. To finish it off.
The giants face twisted in pain, and it forced itself to swallow its anguished groan, as if to protect itsst ounce of pride.
With a face of indifference, Allen prepared for the finale, for a perfect victory.
He stepped out and gathered all of his strength. His muscles contracted in preparation, and the mana circting in his body amplified that force.
Sacrificing his emotions, fueling himself with anger, he prepared for the final blow.
Jotunnsverd. First Order.
Managarmr.
Just as Allen''s sword was about to plunge into the giant''s neck
Wait a minute!
Ves cried out.
[1] Managarmr is another name for Hati, the wrathful hound who is said to chase the Moon every night until the arrival of Ragnarok, when he will devour the Moon and gorge upon the dead.
Chapter 56
Chapter 56
With help from Vess control, Allen''s sword path passed through the giant''s body.
He swung his sword again, but was unsessful in cutting off the head of the giant.
As his repeated attacks failed, the soldiers grew increasingly doubtful but remained silent, thinking that there might be some sort of meaning behind prolonging the fight.
The giant''s strength still lingered in his mind.
Wait, wait, wait, don''t kill it!
Allen drew out the sword at her cry. He swung the de upright and pulled her right in front of his face.
"Why?" he asked, the low notes of his voice containing hints of a tenuous irritation.
This giant was his enemy. No matter how much Allen had learned about swordsmanship from her, she had no right to tell him what to do. Even if she was somehow involved with this giant, the monster was too dangerous to be left alive.
"No matter what you say, I don''t intend to save him
It''s not like that! Just a moment, just a moment
Allen looked at Ves and let out a sigh. "I hope youll have a better list of excuses to give me after this.
I was going to tell youter, even if you didn''t say that.
Sure, sure.
Whats with that reaction! Ugh Why did I follow such a person? Really. If it wasn''t for that
Allen felt her gaze, as if she were ring at him even though she was a sword.
"What, is there a problem?"
Whatever. Its fine. Whatever. Anyway, stab its heart with the sword slowly.
"What?"
To be told to stop attacking and then attack again?
Allen turned his suspicious gaze away, as she encouraged him to hurry up and stab it. Acting out her words, Allen advanced slowly forward with the tip of his sword facing the giant''s heart. The inscriptions on Vess de glowed faintly.
If the giant was able to resist this attack in any way, he would aim to kill it even if she opposed it again.
Hed already passed up plenty of chances, had already dyed this battle for a considerable amount of time. They needed to hurry.
However, the giant did not resist.
Squelch.
Even as the sword prated its rough skin, the giant showed no signs of movement.
Rather, it seemed as if it was at peace.
The de of the sword dug in even deeperpassing through the skin, separating the muscles and bones, prating deeper and deeper.
But Allen did not rx.
And with no resistance, Ves prated the heart.
The giant finally met its death.
Allen felt a bit ufortable at its unfamiliar appearance, wondering if it was once a free-roaming monster.
No.
''Ves, she knows.
She shouted loudly as if she knew how Allen was feeling at the conclusion of the battle. It''s over! You can stop nagging me now that you''re done.
"What did you do?"
Even though he was there to witness it all, he had no idea what had happened. Ves replied with an ambiguous answer. Haah, it''s tooplicated to exin now, so can I tell youter?
Sigh. As long as I eventually hear an answer.
At his sighing reply, Ves turned around, shouting exaggeratedly, Well, how about you go search over there? I''m sure there''s something that way.
Allen nodded.
The quick encounter with the giant and the sh and suture marks all over its corpse suggested that there was something worth looking into within the building behind it.
As Allen tried to move toward the building, he heard a chorus of bted cheers.
"Wow, Sir Allen!"
"You were amazing! When did you learn to move like that?!
"It was like watching the Knight Commander!"
Allen froze, as if he had forgotten their existence.
Fortunately, the knights whod gone flying earlier seemed to havee to their senses. They were all dressed in iron armor reinforced with mana, so they wouldn''t die so easily.
When he looked at Linbelle and Inellia, they seemed to have no wounds.
Of course.
He had told Inellia to try as much as possible not to use any of her power, but fundamentally, her power on its own was excellent. Linbelle also had no chance to get hurt because she was only given the chance to deal with the monsters he had intentionally let past him.
The senior knight closest to him rushed to him. "Sir, have you been keeping this a secret?" He looked at Allen with a mixture of surprise and awe.
"Well, that wasnt my intention, but I suppose you know now."
"No! You''re amazing!"
He was going to hide it a bit more.
I wouldve had no choice but to reveal it at the Academy, anyway, and pretend like I just practiced a little beforehand.
Now that he knew what his power felt like, hed be able to control it more skillfully next time.
In response to his praise, Allen began, "Yes, Sir Philip. I''m trying to search around over there As Ves said, it was clear that there were traces of giants there, so they needed to take a look.
But at the moment he tried to give them orders, explosive roars split through the air.
Pop! Pop!
Pow, pow, pow! Bang, bang!
Allen''s eyes went straight to the sky. There, a huge symbol rose high, visible from even a far distance.
"Sir, thats
One of the distress signals that Princess Natasha had distributed was exploding.
That means
Allen schooled his expression. Although he was curious about the building, he hadnt forgotten why they hade to the Heavenly Forest in the first ce.
He hastily gave orders to the soldiers. "Were moving out, now!"
The knights rushed around, aware of the importance of that re.
"Come on, move! Hurry! Lets go!"
"Those who are wounded should follow slowly behind the other soldiers!"
Allen took advantage of the knights'' mobilization and gave Inellia some orders, before she discreetly disappeared through the shadows of the trees.
Linbelle, are youing with me?
She looked in the direction where her mother had disappeared, seeming slightly hesitant, then nodded. "Yes, I want to go with you."
"You know it could be dangerous?"
"I know."
"It would be safer to go along with the soldiers behind us."
"I still want to go with you."
Allen didn''t push her any further. She looked determinedobsessed, even.
Yes a sort of insanity, so to speak."
He didnt think she''d gone quite that far yet, but in Allen''s eyes, she was that insecure.
Allen gave a brief answer, hiding hisplex feelings. "Alright. Make sure you keep up.
As he quickly turned around, a weak answer came from behind.
Because hed been thinking of their retreat for quite some time by that point, it wasnt long before the senior knight initiated the move.
"The wounded should move with the soldiers, and the rest, follow me immediately!"
Allen sped up toward the source of the explosion as soon as the knights were ready.
''The god.
He had to undergo the gods trials.
He was sure Julius had heard it, too. That bastard wouldn''t turn down the opportunity, so he''d go straight there.
The end of this ordeal was nearing.
* * *
* * *
By the time Allen arrived at the site of the re, theyd heard three or four more explosions.
It was chaos.
Crash! Bang!
The dark sorcerers were all gathered together, attacking the hordes of monsters approaching them, while still spewing out ck magic.
"Hold on a little longer! Help will be here soon!"
"All rightkghokay!"
"Ahh, Sylph! Block as much as you can!"
In the center of a vacant lot, elves struggled to hold off the dark sorcerers offensive. Many were injured, and some alreadyy dead on the forest floor.
This flow of mana Were they hiding it?
He turned his head toward a terrible scream from beyond the vacant lot. There, a gody, groaning and struggling on the altar. Dozens of dark sorcerers were working to maintain the magic circle around it, joining hands. Above the gods head, a fairly young man appeared to be watching the battlefield with a big smile.
''Is he the mastermind behind all this?''
Allen barked out an order, relieved by the fact that they hadnt arrived toote. "Everyone! Help the elves!
"Yes, sir!" The knights, with their mana-enforced iron armor, stomped into the ground violently, as if to relieve their anger from facing the giant earlier. The monsters surrounding the elves were quickly defeated by their efforts.
Seeing this, Natasha smiled with relief, seeming to acknowledge that shed been saved thanks to their arrival. Even the dark sorcerers paused for a moment at the sight of the knights.
Allen and the knights closed the distance and joined the elves.
"Sir Allen!"
"Sorry for the dy."
"Oh, dont be!" Natasha looked moved by his arrival to the dramatic situation.
"Well, some havent been so fortunate."
As Allen nced at the elves scattered across the battlefield, Natasha''splexion dimmed slightly.
"Yes, well. There were sacrifices made. But that''s not something for you to worry about, sir.
She regretted it. Had she known this would happen, she would rather have moved together with them. However, she had assumed she could solve the matter without their help, and so she had stepped forward first, only to suffer great damage.
Some of the other elves were impressed as well, enough to dilute the negativity of the old grudge they had built up before the arrival of their aids. After all, when they first arrived in the Forest, even though they had known the troops hade to support them, the elves had low expectations for them. However, the elves had no choice now but to appreciate their arrival when they found themselves in such peril.
"Well, then I''m d to hear that. Let''s get rid of the remaining dark sorcerers first
Feeling something approaching, Allen quickly turned his head. A dark object rushed toward him at a tremendous speed.
Just as Allen was about to move, another popped out from behind him.
"Hey, you punk!
Shouting with a sh of a dark-blue blitz, a familiar figure with blue hair and sharp eyes appeared.
Natasha blinked and softly murmured, "Julius?"
It was Julius Reinhart.
You''re finally here.
Julius quickly caught the dark object, swearing despite the presence of others.
"Whates around goes around!
A thunderbolt crashed into the dark object.
The figure, hit directly by the thunderbolt, copsed into the ce where the dark sorcerers gathered and vaporized into a puff of smoke.
Crash!
Several sorcerers whod been making hand signs turned into scraps of meat, and all eyes swung around to focus on him.
"Well now, thats quite the entrance."
Such an observation held many implications.
"Quite the entrance, indeed," Allen agreed with Natasha, examining the fallen ck figure. He wasnt sure what it had been like in its original form, but the armor itd been wearing had been smashed, and its whole body was covered in red, smoldering marks. An arm was even missing.
The man, now turned into a wreck, barely limped up.
"Whoa, it''s not even an extra. He''s acting up." Julius muttered something nonsensical while everyone elses eyes focused on the figure ahead.
Behind him, the Knight Commander arrived, btedly leading in the knights. The heavy footsteps of the elite soldiers rang out from afar.
Julius smiled while looking at the dark knight, and his eyes met Allen, standing among the elves. When he opened his mouth with a weing smile, Allen took a big breath.
Broth"
Everyone!
"er!"
"get rid of the dark sorcerers!"
Julius''s eyes opened wide.
"Together here are Sir Julius, the Knight Commander, and me! Do not be afraid!"
Julius, who grasped the situation at his cry, realized what Allen was going to do and shouted, "Follow me!"
He flung himself into the dark sorcerers, who had been distracted by the series of intrusions. The knights cried out behind him and began crushing the remaining monsters.
"Raaaaagh!"
"Kill all the dark sorcerers!"
"Kill them all!"
The sound of stomping feet boomed across the space, and the elves, encouraged by their cries, supported them from behind.
"Help them!"
"Take revenge for our fallenrades!"
Allen drew his sword again and ran toward a spot that exuded a certain atmosphere.
After noticing the direction he was headed, the Knight Commander and Julius followed him.
It was toward the gods altar.
It''s a relief that we can solve this problem before it gets out of hand.
The purpose of their expedition was to borrow the gods ability, but the fact that they could cut short the dark sorcerers project also yed a part in his motivation.
Theyre less powerful now than described in the ck book
There was always going to be something different.
It was more likely that Allen''s behavior became something like a butterfly effect, resulting in their foes having fewer forces than in his previous life.
If that was really the case, it could exin why they hadnt been attacked while traveling through the mountains, or the fact that they were weaker than hed read in the book.
''They shouldnt be strong enough to even attempt fighting the ruling family.
Considering the strength of enemies who attacked Julius in the ck book, it seemed that they were maybe only half as strong as depicted.
Allen sped up to finish off the person who appeared to be their ringleader. But as he approached his destination, Allen hesitated for a moment.
Why aren''t the dark sorcerers prepared?
The magic circle stained with red blood beat violently. The movement of the dark sorcerers, whod been making so many signs with their hands until just a moment ago, stopped. The young dark sorcerer atop the god was still smiling.
An rm rang in his head, and Allen spread out his senses.
The rotting bodies of the elves, the scattered remains of the tortured, and the bodies of the dark sorcerers all piled up.
"You crazy bastard!
He finally understood what they were trying to do. The reason why they were so much weaker was because they were sacrificing themselves? But why?
Brother?
Allen''s utterance made the man above the godugh happily, like he took it apliment.
And then
Squelch.
A loud round of apuse mixed with confused cries arose from the battlefield.
"Why are they killing themselves all of a sudden!
"Sir, I think theres something strange going on
The dark sorcerers had inserted daggers into their own hearts, as if fulfilling a vow.
The battlefield paused at the bizarre sight of not one person, but every one of them choosing tomit suicide.
The dark sorcerers copsed, bleeding in groups, as the magic circle under their feet gobbled up all the blood puddled in the battlefield.
Rumble, rumble.
Allen hastily turned his head at the sound of the shaking earth.
"Wh-whoa! Wh-whats this?
"God, my god!
The god was waking up, following the words of the young dark sorcerer. There was no reason behind those red eyes, and the once-white fur appeared to be a discolored ck.
Ves rush out a cry, You know it''ll get dangerous if you don''t move right now, right?
"I know!"
Crash!
With all his might, Allen moved before anything could happen. More than any conflict he may have had with Julius, the awakening of the god had now be the most pressing issue.
His instincts began to sound in rm as the new body woke up.
What happened next was beyond Allen''s control. He could feel it instinctively. As he hastened his pace, the rough wind pushed against his face.
As he watched Allen approaching, Carnell had a thought:
What had made him so impatient? Where did it all go wrong?
Why?
It''s toote to think about that now.
His lips curved.
The work had already been done, and the ceremony theyd prepared was about to bepleted.
Actually, this isn''t so bad.
Seeing them so flustered, he thought it would be a good choice to turn his n on its head.
Carnell touched his heart gently.
Allen tried to stop him with all his might. But sadly enough, he was too far away.
"Haah."
Between Allens sword and the young sorcerers hand, thetter was faster.
Squelch.
He smiled.
"I hope I have a happy dream."
His flowing blood soaked the gods eyes.
"Forever."
At the same time as his hand stabbed his heart, the light in Carnells eyes died.
Riiiiiing.
Allen''s vision fell into the abyss of his consciousness, ending the ringing in his ears.
* * *
And he heard a voice.
"Allen?"
Though it wasnt something that was possible to hear.
Or at least, it was something he thought he would never be able to hear again.
"Brother? Hurry up and answer me, Allen."
It was his real brother''s voice.
Chapter 57
Chapter 57
There were three moments that came to everyonejust three chances to change one''s life.
Linbelle, on the verge of losing her home to the attacks of chimeras, got into a conflict with the soldiers in charge of the gate. Those soldiers of the city gate had halved her familys resources, aggressively separated her from her mother, and forced her to face overwhelming hunger and thirst. She had been born in a vige, and a vige is where she had lived all her life.
For her, the first world she knew was a cold one.
She hadnt known what to do. All she could do was argue with the soldiers, believing that there was true justice. But that hadnt worked either.
Shecked strength. The supposedly righteous soldiers were rotten to the core, yet no passerby helped her. She couldn''t exert any meaningful force in the face of a real threat, and was, thus, unable to cope with the powerless soldiers taunts.
And just as she began to try to defend herself, he appeared.
Allen Reinhart.
With that lofty noble dignity and overwhelmingly strong drive of his, he punished the tongues of the soldiers whod insulted his family and saved her from her doom in one fell swoop.
"What''s your name?"
"It''s Linbelle, sir."
And so, for her, at the young age of fifteen, one of those moments hade.
His appearance marked a turning point in her life.
He was different from the other nobles she had heard about. He listened to themon people. He understood the circumstances of the crime she was forced tomit. Yet, his favor had no ulterior motive.
He granted her a request.
The next day, Inellia, whod been wandering outside the gate, entered the city on his order.
The gate, which had felt as insurmountable as a tall wall, was opened with ease by a simple exchange that insinuated amand, and the frightened soldiers did not dare to rebel against his authority.
It was why she immediately epted his request to be a maid.
I''ll be his maid.
She knew what strength was because she knew what it meant to be powerless.
It had only been a day, but all that Linbelle had gone through was enough to change her mind.
However, another day passed, and Inellia was taken. No, she was kidnapped.
Because of me.
The demonic monster had made no secret of going after Linbelle, and Inellia had chased after that demon for her.
It wasnt until then she realized that strength amounted to nothing in the face of real power. In the face of real power, intangible authority had no meaning and copsed like a sand castle. And the same went for their enemy.
I''ll save you.
He was strong. He ughtered dozens of monsters on his own, no trap holding him back.
That was how she came to admire him.
Strength. I need strength.
She wanted to be as strong as himto not be swept away by any waves, to stand her ground against unreasonable things.
It seemed to her as if there was nothing Allen couldn''t do with his strength.
What ensued yed out just as she had imagined. Allen sessfully and safely rescued Inellia before anything bad could happen. Linbelle saw him deal with the chimera sorcerer, and without hesitation, leave his workshop with her. He exited the cave in such a short time after entering.
''Just like I thought, I need to be stronger. For me, for my mother, and''
After the death of the chimera sorcerer, she wanted to repay his kindness.
Fortunately, hed told her that she had talent.
"Youre a genius. Youll be no match for anybody elsea real genius."
He said she was special.
She was someone who could handle prana, that noble power. She could definitely do it because she was different.
And she was pleased.
So, to be able to be as strong as he said she could be, to fulfill the expectations of the one she admiredthat was why she swung her sword.
All day. All night.
To live up to his expectations. To be strong.
No matter how much she wanted to give up during that very first training session, and no matter how hard the work was, she didn''t give up.
However
"Why why am I not good enough?"
Nothing had changed.
Because I didnt put in enough effort. Because Im not desperate enough.
She slept less at night. She doubled her training time. She mixed training into her daily life.
The female knight who was in charge of her training praised her, as if she possessed a tremendous talent.
In that way, a month passed.
"Is the seat ufortable?"
She still couldn''t handle prana.
She was desperate.
"Hehe. The carriage is a little ufortable."
She had no choice but tough like a fool.
Her workclumsy unlike Inelliasand her powersunable to live up to expectationssent her spiraling into a panic. She was afraid it would get in the way of her rtionship with the one she so admired. She didnt want to betray his seemingly infinite trust.
So she hid her desperation behind her cute act.
The same was true when the bandits stormed their carriage.
"I can do it!"
She killed one of their ambushers with the skills she had learned.
There was no shock that came with the murder, just as there shouldn''t have been. It was an ordeal to awaken the noble power that she tried so hard to master. Yet the opportunity slipped right through her fingers, trembling from her harsh training.
She thought it demonstrated some minimal value.
But then
"Stay with Inellia for a while."
Linbelle was left at the manor.
Alone again.
She realized it again in her desperation.
"I need to prove my usefulness.
She took up her sword once more. That feeling of alienation when left alone became jealousy. A desperation for usefulness became an obsession.
What even was a noble power?
"Pledge to the highest chivalry, take the oath, and keep promises until fulfilled."
It was a reference to the basic ts of prana, a phrase that summarized the core of the noble power.
"What do I put into it?
Prana consisted of ones emotions. Of promises, oaths, derations, and desires.
And yet
"Why can''t I do it? Why? Why? Why?
She couldnt do it.
Her mother could take his orders and carry them out perfectly fine. Linbelle was the only one who was stagnant in this flowing world.
That was why she hung on to something else, so that she could prove to him that she had changed.
Nevertheless
"Please, take me with you, sir."
Allen didn''t take her.
There was no ce for her on a witch-hunting journey. She couldnt prove her value like when she took down the thief, and she wasnt given a chance to even observe.
But he smiled at her as always.
"I need you to stay with Inellia. Theres something else I need instead."
Linbelle was in despair. She felt like she was going to be eaten by her own helplessness. She felt suffocated by his infinite goodwill.
And
Her mother, once more, worked stealthily at his verymand. Just like everyone, everyone else but her.
"I"
Linbelle''s eyes flickered with a tint of darkness.
Her unfulfilled cravings went beyond obsession into madness.
Until finally
* * *
* * *
"Ah."
She opened her eyes. As soon as she woke up, she saw the ceiling of a familiar room.
"Why am I here?"
Looking around, she was in one of the many rooms of the manor.
"I followed Sir Allen to the Heavenly Forest and?
She didn''t remember what shed been doing.
She left the room at once and headed toward Sir Allens private study. If she went there, she would figure out everything that happened.
But the attitudes of the servants on her way there were strange.
"Y-you"
"How are you?!"
"Oh my god!"
Theyd acted as if theyd seen a ghost. As if the dead had returned to life.
She gave up her desire to question them. First, she had to go to him.
The hallways of the manor felt strange.
Did something happen?
Decorations that hadnt been there a few days ago lined both sides of the hallway. The ce she thought she knew well felt somewhat different. There were fewer people there than usual, like they were avoiding the path to her destination.
Theres no way.
What was wrong with Allen?
Why was the Reinhart family avoiding him?
Linbelle ignored her thoughts and quickly arrived at Allen''s private study.
Knock, knock.
"Sir, its Linbelle. May Ie in?
No answer came from inside, but what she did hear was the faint sound of paper flipping through the gap of the door.
I guess he didn''t hear me because hes working.
Was her mother carrying out his orders again?
Linbelle fought back the emotions guing her and spoke again. "Sir, its Linbelle.
As she opened her mouth once again, the sound inside stopped. Then came a feeble, sharp answer that she never wouldve thought coulde from Allen.
"It''s not time to eat yet. What do you want? If it''s not a big deal, then go away."
It was strange.
Allen wouldn''t answer like that.
Linbelle suddenly remembered the foreign feeling within the manor and the way the other servants seemed to almost run away from her.
She made her move, filled with an eerie foreboding. She would be punished for entering without permission, but she wanted to relieve her strangely shaky anxiety.
"Didn''t I tell you to go away! What do you"
What met her eyes appeared quite suddenly when shed opened the door.
"How are you?! You! You! How can you be alive?! How? Oh my god
With an unshaven beard and a senile face full of spots, the man within the private study looked at her, his red eyes gued with fear.
"I''m sorry, I''m sorry. But not yet! I can''t! I-I need to save my brother! Please, please
It was Allen Reinhart. He looked a little different, but it was definitely him.
S Sir?
"Go away. Just for now. Please, please My brother is waiting for me. Please, please Ill pray if prayers are what you want
He stepped backward, his back to the wall as Linbelle approached, and immediately fell to the floor.
"Sir, what are you
Linbelle was confused. What was going on here? Why was he acting like this all of a sudden? She opened her mouth, trying to say something, anything. "Sir, what''s wrong? Whats going on Where''s my mom?"
"I''m sorry I made your mother die. So please
"Inellia? Your maid? What do you mean you made her die?
"Please, I''ve never had a maid. I''ll pay my debt someday. Just please, stop."
All she could gather was that there was a disconnect between their two separate conversations, so much so that they couldnt understand each other.
"What about the others? Like Soned and Karik
"Did you take Soned, the merchant, too? Whos Karik?
Only then did he realize something was wrong. Raising his thin face, he lifted his hand and snatched the medicine container from the desk, took a handful, and pushed it into his mouth.
Gulp.
In an instant, his pupils rxed and his zed gaze turned to stare nkly into the air.
How long did he stay like that?
He murmured at the sight of her, which still hadnt disappeared after several minutes. "Its not a hallucination?" He had thought the hallucination was strange. It felt more vivid than the usual, yet somehow even stranger than that.
"No, more importantly
This one hade back to the manor as a corpse.
"How are you alive?
"Uh I don''t know?
Rumors spread throughout the manor that thete Linbelle had been revived.
Most who heard didn''t believe it, yet they had no choice after witnessing her walking around the manor.
However, no one wanted to see her.
It was partly because they werent close to her, seeing as she had usually been busy training. But for those who saw her crushed body, they were in a hurry to avoid her, running from a certain ominous feeling.
The next day, Linbelle met with Allen again.
"Is that it?"
She told him everything she knew.
"Yes."
How she got there. How he used to look and how he used to act. And even his rtionship with Julius.
Allenughed with a despondent look, inhaling the smoke from his pipe.
Puff. "So it was a failure in the end? Then everything I did
He seemed to have noticed something in her story. He was smart, so it wasnt out of the ordinary for him to have extrapted something from Linbelles stories.
It was for nothing.
He took a swig from a bottle of strong wine. The amber liquid burned his throat.
"Pwah! Reconciling with Julius? Killing the chimera sorcerer? Stopping a bandit attack? Ha, haha! That''s just like me."
m!
The remaining liquid swirled around in the bottle, and Allen again took a deep huff of his pipe. She felt a little awkward seeing this. He didnt usually touch alcohol, let alone tobo.
"That really, really is just like me I won''t make that mistake again.
It was obvious what he was thinking about.
Wasnt he going to try to dig up something from what was there?
Whats more, he was inferring why the future him acted like that.
So
"I''ve already failed."
"What"
The ''him'' from the future existed and acted on his own.
And Linbelle was with the future ''him''.
Which must mean one thing.
"This ce is fake."
"What?"
She blinked her eyes in surprise.
"What do you mean this ce is fake? It looks so real."
"But it doesn''t change that it''s fake."
He smiled cynically, looking both despondent and desperate.
Time could never reverse itself.
But no matter what kind of trickery had been used, ''he'' eventually went back to the past, and thus, changed his future.
Which meant that no matter how hard Allen struggled, he could never change the ''present''.
So this ce is either a carefully crafted fake or Yes, it''s just a fantasy. But hearing your story, maybe .
It mustve been
"The god You said thest one you saw was the god, right? It must have something to do with him."
Whatever he did here, he wouldn''t be able to save his brother.
"I''ll figure it out. Since you said you''re my maid, I''ll help you."
It was a death sentence.
He smiled sadly.
Linbell looked at him silently. This wasnt the person she knew. Even so...
I still don''t understand everything yet, but
Even if it wasnt really the Allen whom she admired
"Then, tell me your story, sir."
"What?"
For the first time, he looked perplexedAllen, who always disyed a calm demeanor, never showing a frown on his face.
"It''s not fair if Im the only one talking, right?
"What do I even say? Did ''I'' tolerate you acting like that?"
"Yes, of course!"
He smirked at her bold answer. "Then there''s nothing I can''t tell you."
Maybe aboutah, who could say15 years ago.
When a younger brother became a rascal while trying to run from his stupid older brother''s anger.
When an older brother swore to give everything for his younger brother.
When an idiot resolved to save his foolish brother.
That was how the story began.
Chapter 58
Chapter 58
"I see." Linbelle nodded absentmindedly. "So, you knew everything."
"Knew what?"
"About me." Now she understood it, his undying expectations and burdensome goodwill. "You must have known what my future holds."
"I suppose so."
Her voice raised with a sharp edge. "You knew what I would do."
"Yes." What was there to hide? Now that hed said this much, he didn''t have to hide it anymore.
"Is that why you didnt like me?
Allen gave a dry smile. "If you felt that way, I apologize."
"No, no, that''s not it." It wasn''t like that. Her feelings now weren''t anything like that. He had saved her, after all. Mere thanks wouldnt be nearly enough.
But as for the reason she felt so upset
"Why?"
Why was she so sensitive?
"Why are you making that face?"
"What?"
Yes, it was because of that.
"Why do you look like you''ve reached the end?
His face was exhausted, devoid of hope, as if it were all over.
"You said you were going to save your brother. You said hes still alive, so why
She didn''t want to see that look on his face.
The Allen she knew had always been a rxed person. Or at least, he wasn''t a person who was struggling with despair like this.
"Are you giving up?
Well, what else should I do?
Keep going? Without needing a reason?
"You don''t know unless you try."
Allen let out a sardonicugh at her ignorance. "You want me to hang on to dreams that have alreadye to an end?"
What could he even do?
Allen''s haggard face began to pale.
Rachael hadmitted suicide, deprived of her position as sessor. He had devoted all of his youth to studying magic, and now he had regr seizures. He had to rely on medication to sleep through the night and couldnt stand the day without alcohol. His honor has been run into the ground, and everyone pointed fingers at himthe madman. After his shallow rtionship with his family crumbled further, even the servants came to shun him.
What more could he do?
Sob.
What more was left for him to give up? What was next?
He couldn''t breathe. He felt a tightness in his throat, so tight that he could barely swallow the medication in his hand.
The oue had already been determined, but he couldntpletely give up either.
He was alive, yet there was no way to save his brother.
Here in his small room, he was waiting on death row.
"Sir, it''s all right Linbelle hurried towards his seething figure, speaking in a worried tone.
Letting go of her hand, Allen squeezed out, "I Im not the person you used to know." He replied to her with that same sneer. "So you don''t have to try and get close to me."
He rose quietly and threw himself onto the bed in the corner of the small room. Since there was no chance of sess, he would just give up. He would rather make a deal with the devil, if only it would offer him even a glimmer of hope.
However, it was already confirmed that that, too, would fail.
"I''ll help you get back. Don''t worry."
There was no reason to face the fear that wasing.
No reply answered him and then came the sound of her leaving the room.
Time began to pass.
Allenpletely gave up on saving Julius. All he had left were alcohol and cigarettes.
"Look at this, sir, look! It''s pretty delicious today.
And one maid who was everything.
She came in with food she had cooked herself.
"I don''t need it. Allen emptied the remaining contents of his bottle.
She became a member of the manorsmunity, making excuses that shed made a full recoveryno longer dead.
"Who told you to bring me food? Im not your real master, anyway."
"I am your maid," she answered as if it were just a fact.
Allenughed. "Do whatever you want."
As long as Julius was alive, he couldnt let his own life end.
He was nothing short of a living corpse.
"Alright! I got it!" She smiled, face free of wrinkles, and started cleaning his room.
And like that, a month passed.
"Why are you here? I think Julius was here the other day.
Still, she was by Allen''s side.
"It would be better to follow him, so you can go back.
"But you wouldnt actually want that."
Her sincerity was so warm, to the point where he wanted to lean on her, if only for a moment.
"Oh, sir. You said you''d do me a favorst time, right?
"Yes, I did."
He remembered nodding his head under the influence of alcohol.
"Please call up the people who can use prana."
Her eyes twinkled like stars.
"As many as you can."
That starlight was cozy, bright enough to shine through the darkness.
It had been two years since she had arrived there.
Linbelle''s routine was no longer confined to Allen''s room.
"What''s the reason?
Traces of her presence covered the whole training ground. They had already discovered that the world was one created by the god.
"You won''t even be able to keep that skill unless we pass the trial.
"Its something I can do to help you." She smiled cheerfully. It was a smile directly opposed to Pure ck, the sword he held in his hand.
"It''s useless, Allen said, undermining her efforts. This was simply some short-lived entertainment. "You will fail."
"You don''t know whatll happen unless you try, right? I''ll give it a try instead of you. Over and over.
Allen did not respond.
She still couldn''t handle prana, but her expression remained the same. At some point, she stopped asking him to call others for support.
He looked for her around the manor periodically and often found her meditating.
"Linbelle, what are you doing?"
"Pledge to the highest chivalry, take the oath, and keep promises until fulfilled."
She didn''t hear Allen.
Why does prana need to express feelings?
Why did it have to be like that?
Mana, divine power, and aura all had their roots.
"But why is prana the only one you say is noble? Are the other forces insignificant inparison? Why does prana need to react to emotions?"
She dug into the nature of pranas power.
"Prana is strongly influenced by emotions. Why?"
It gathered power through the incorporation of intense emotions, and the magnitude of its force changed ording to their concentration.
"But what if you don''t put any emotion into it?
She began to swing her sword.
You have to go blind with emotion to use itto go overboard and lose yourself, because normally, you wouldn''t be good enough.
The shadow danced along with the sword.
Pure ck vibrated in unison with the swords.
"Because you can''t use it when youre in a normal state."
Do it. Do it.
If it''s not fully there, then just give up.
"Restraining yourself. Swearing vengeance. Standing by your wishes. Dedicating your whole life. And"
Falling into the abyss.
Longing for it. Desiring it. Needing it.
"Wishing, hoping, longing, wanting, praying."
Shed seen and experienced a lot over the years here.
Knights who sacrificed themselves to protect others. A king who swore to arge audience his deration so that he might not forget his promise. A warrior who promised to protect his family''s wishes.
"Until only one emotion is left."
Shed had a discussion with some knights. There, she heard a rumor about the king, that he battled against a warrior.
And
So if you hope to achieve total immersion, dwell right there for an eternity.
And she learned of the end of another ''her'', whod lost her mother and vowed revenge.
"Is this what that noble power is supposed to be?"
She let out a cynicalugh.
"I didn''t have to despair so much just because I couldn''t use it.
She let go of the sword.
No, it was that obsession with which she had bound herself in the past.
"Have you made any progress?"
"Not yet, but I suppose you must be looking forward to it. Hehe."
"Ha, you little punk. Still, Allen could not understand Linbelle. "You won''t be able to do it."
"Don''t worry. I won''t give up."
* * *
* * *
Time flew by even faster.
The fame attached to Julius''s name grew day by day, as Allen''s reputation gradually declined, getting dragged through the mud. Even lower, if possible.
At some point she started spending more and more time with Allen.
The aimless time they spent together piled up.
Allen prepared for the end.
And at the end of his fleeting, pointless life
"What are you going to do?"
Julius said he would go alone to investigate the remains of some recent disaster in the mountains.
"I don''t know what the real impact of him dying here would actually have."
If he couldn''t save him, then hed kill him.
He would die, because he could not live.
"I''ll go with you."
"You should be able to leave in a little while.
"I''m your maid.
Allen replied with a deste smile. "Do as you please."
Their attack on Julius was, of course, unsessful. All attacks were easily blocked, and most of the traps were broken before they could be used. Contrary to the information hed heard, he had a colleague.
A broken arm and terrible burns across his bodythat was the price of attacking him.
As expected, this is what happens.
He actually had known that their ambush would fail, and yet he had proceeded anyway.
''I couldn''t hold out any longer.
As he passed by his lifes milestones, the hope he had maintained slowly dwindled.
''Julius, my brother. I''ll see you soon.
Would there be an afterlife in this fantasy?
He closed his eyes waiting for his approaching death.
"Argh! Raniel!"
A high shout rang through the mountains. It was the voice of one of Julius''s men.
"Lin Linbelle, how could you do this?! Raniel was so good to you!
Sir. She ignored his voice and called out to Allen.
"What?"
"Do you still think the same way as before?"
"Of course." How could he not want to give up by this point?
"Stop trying to give up. Run away. I''ve finally got him.
Allen calmly came to his senses as he heard the explosion in the distance. "Really?"
"Yes, run away. Hide until someone finishes the trial," she replied with a big smile.
"Well, I''ll show you.
She moved, not needing to hear an answer.
Allen had no idea what was going on.
"What do you mean?"
"You were brainwashed. Just kill him!"
"One of our own has been killed. Theres no need to let him live."
"For Raniels revenge!"
Balls of mes and chunks of steel fell like rain.
The heavily armored warriors flew into action like arrows.
"Its just like you said. The future cannot be changed. This is just a fake projection of the future that wouldvee from the past."
She kicked the ground lightly.
"But that''s not true. This ce is just a part of the trial designed by the god."
A brisk snowstorm cooled his hot skin.
"You can try to break out of it as much as you want."
Closeby, a veteran whod undergone numerous battles raised a thick axe.
Her sword still remained bare.
"Die!"
The ck sword drew a semicircle.
Shwoom!
"Kaden!"
"H-how did you break through my defensive magic!
The warrior was torn down.
"As long as you don''t give up, you can do pretty much anything. I''ll show you that."
Dozens of spells poured down from the sky.
"Right here."
Each step shook the ground.
Ah.
A life was taken each time she swung her sword.
"Why isnt my magic working?
"Hurry, hurry, stop them! Stop them!"
The expensive shields shone brightly, blocking the blue barrier.
Theck of debris covering her sword contrasted their weapons.
ng! ng!
He felt strange hearing all the screaming as the explosions intensified.
"Alright, alright, now stop running away."
Her sword began to decapitate the scattering fugitives.
Red blood soaked the white snow.
"Whatever you do, you won''t reach him!"
"No, I will. Her whisper pierced their ears.
"Why?" Allen scrunched up his face. "Why are you doing this? I''m not really ''Allen'', anyway, so why?"
"Because I know."
Her warm voice shone over his chilled body.
"I know that feeling, the desperation for something you know you cant reach."
Step, step.
"Because that feeling of desperation is eternal.
"Linbelle."
She turned her head toward the cold voice and saw him.
Emitting an air of arrogance and vigor, his figure was adorned with relics from another era. A dark blue current hovered around his body, and with a single step, the snow in his radius evaporated. He sported that confident attitude of his, revealing his leadership over others, and a face years older than the one she knew.
Looking around with a face that didnt bother hiding his irritation, Julius asked quietly, "Did you do this?"
"Yes, sir."
The air sank heavily at her definite answer.
"Really?"
Julius didn''t say much.
"It looks like I''ve taken in a dog that doesn''t recognize its own owner.
He raised his sword. The air shook, magnificent dark clouds gathering in the sky above.
He gathered everything in him, as if he was nning to end it all at once.
"I''m d I went with Allen."
It was a meaningful response.
But Julius didn''t care. They wouldn''t be seeing each other again, anyway.
"Is that so? Then I suppose youre quite useless."
Hundreds of lightning bolts fell from the sky.
As her sword fell, the world turned white.
Toote.
shes of lightning filled their vision.
Rumble, rumble, rumble.
With an explosion of steam, the snow instantly melted, leaving the whole mountain covered in fog.
Thump.
Her body fell to the ground.
Reach me, my ass
A single blow knocked her down.
He tried to let go of the expectations hed held onto for a moment.
But it was all over now.
Linbelle would be free from the trial, and hed be able to see his brother.
The hallucinations that had consumed him all his life crept in.
"You''re not dead yet, are you, sir?"
Linbelles voice rang in his ears. Allens eyes sparkled in disbelief. A figure rose through the swaying steam.
"Are you still alive?"
Julius, also wearing a surprised expression, gave a disappointed smile. "Ha, so you all really thought you could get rid of me?
"If we didn''t, we wouldn''t have attacked you, would we have?"
It was a rather bold answer, though her whole body was scarred with burns from the electricity.
Julius''s eyes exploded with lightning as he took his stance. "Why not return to my side now? I can let it slide with those skills of yours."
"I''m sorry."
She smiled yfully.
"I have only one master."
Chapter 59
Chapter 59
I suppose it cant be helped. Well then. Julius shook his head from side to side. Time to die.
Im familiar with your attacks now.
Linbelle closed her eyes. A circle of pure ck began to expand under her feet.
No, it''s not anything ck.
The night sky. It was as clear as the sky of that night.
She remembered the beginning of her time after having fallen there. She couldn''t understand back then why shede there.
But she could now.
Your trial shows you what it is that you want.
At first, she thought it might''ve been prana.
''But, right now,''
She took a step through the lightning raining down. She expressed her genuine intent in her first step. Her desire in her second step. Her dreams in her third. Wishes in the fourth. Hopes in the fifth. Her prayers in the sixth. Aspirations in the seventh.
Her resolution in the eighth step.
"You''re struggling, arent you!"
She stopped, pausing her final step. Before eyes, a dragon straight from her dreams appeared with its fangs bared through its gaping mouth.
"That''s funny. You can''t even control your emotions. Wheres all that strength gone?"
She forgot everything she had just recited.
"I guess in the end, its just me who sets the limits."
Linbelles emotions had been aimed at only one person since the beginning.
Nothing could taint that. As the Milky Way unfurled across the night sky, she took thest step.
She made the final promise.
Those nine steps contained everything shed realized. Everything about her hard work and her ability to wield Pure ck, about how to end her trial. She directed her dozens of emotions toward one goal.
The night sky appeared at her feet, as the stars twinkled above.
"No, how did you avoid!
"Goodbye, sir."
The stars shed their light. The night sky rose and overtook the possessor.
I really did it.
Dozens of holes pierced Julius''s body, emitting electricity-entwined light. The thundercloud that had covered the sky dispersed, as the noble body rolled on the ground.
"Did you see it, sir? I can do it.
She saw him, jaw dropped absentmindedly.
Allen Reinhart.
He wasnt quite as perfect, nor quite as rxed as the person shed served. He couldn''t sleep without medication. He couldnt shake the alcohol or tobo, even though his body was in ruin. He scolded her to give up, but actually worried for her in his heart.
What? You don''t believe it? Linbelle limped over toward Allen.
He could see her body gushing out rivers of red all over. "How How did you You Julius
"Hmm because I believed I could?"
"Ahem, sure."
There was no more confusion clouding Allen''s eyes. He burst out inughter,ughing so hard that he couldnt breathe.
"Unfortunately, I couldn''t save Julius.
That''s fine.
"Why?"
"You made it, didnt you? Since you reached your goal, that means that I can, too."
"But I thought it was impossible to change the past."
As if Linbelles grumbling amused him, Allen responded, "Ah, whatever. Oh, do you have a name for thatst technique?"
"No, not yet."
"Then is it okay for me to have a go at it?
She nodded.
"Tezcatlipoca."
"What does that mean?"
Allen replied with a smile. "It means smoking mirror."
"Huh What?"
"Well, rather than that meaning, it''s moremonly known as the name of a god who fell in ancient times."
"Which god?"
"The god of war and the night.
It was a name that matched her neck-harvesting skill, backgrounded by the night sky.
"Well, it''s not bad."
"Thats so ambiguous?" Allen burst outughing, and sheughed along.
"I mean" Linbelle whispered in a calm tone. "You''re not going to give up now, are you?"
"No." Giving up was a luxury. Allen realized how stupid he had been.
"You won''t cry alone anymore."
"No."
"And youll eat well, too."
"Yes."
The world began to break into pieces. The end of their trial was near.
"You''re not going to drink or smoke, are you?"
This time, his answer came after a little pause. "Well"
"Hurry up."
"I''ll try."
He thought back to the first time he saw her. At first, he had nned on kicking her out once she got too rowdy.
"And" The world around them began to disappear. "The work I did for you here" Her voice wobbled. "Did you like it?"
Allen smiled. "Yes, it was the best treatment I''ve ever received."
"How good was it?"
"Too good for me to have received it."
She was relieved.
"What a relief. Thank you. Im d I got to help you."
Allen answered with sincerity, "Thank you very much."
"It was nice meeting you."
"Say hello to the real Allen for me."
"I''ll make sure to."
"Because it''s still me."
She seemed to drift further and further away until a cloud of light filled his view.
"What a relief."
Truly.
A cold breeze touched Allen''s face.
A drizzle of sleet from the sky saw her off.
Linbelles trial hade to an end.
* * *
* * *
I had a dream.
A very long dream.
.
But when I woke up, I couldn''t remember what I dreamed about.
I definitely saw something important.
There was something there that I shouldn''t forget.
"He!"
"I!"
All I can think of are those distant feelings I felt through the fragments of a broken dream.
Dozens of faint and fuzzy emotions tangled together and scattered across my mind.
The first emotion that crossed my mind was joy, like the full-fledged happiness of finally reuniting with long-lost family.
"us!"
Until such joy quickly dissipated, and sadness began to pour in.
Depression, pain, distress.
Just as I was about to be devoured by that sinking, heavy feeling of a rock weighing down my chest, my heart restartedpounding hardas if it had found hope once again.
"an em! !!
I found within myself a certain resolution along with a certain feeling of joy. And at that same time, I heard the sound of something breaking. Thats when my eyes opened.
"Ah."
* * *
When Allen opened his eyes and looked around, all the other soldiers were also looking around as if they had just been dreaming.
"Whats going on?"
He felt dizzy.
There was work to be done. There were memories that he shouldn''t forget.
And
"My little brother."
He had heard Julius''s voice.
A calm voice rang in his ears as Allen stood absentmindedly with a confused face. Sir.
As he turned his head, he saw Linbelle looking up at him with a calm look on her face. There was a certain impression of depth behind her eyes paired with a curiously calm air about her.
"Linbelle?" For a moment, Allen looked at her, wondering if something had changed.
"What are you doing, sir?
"What?"
Linbelle smiled and pointed at the soldiers. "I think you shouldfort the soldiers."
When he looked in the direction she was pointing, he saw soldiers sprawled defenselessly about. Some were talking to themselves in confusion; some shivering with fear, as if theyd seen something; others still with nk eyes, still yet to escape their fantasy.
rity gradually began to return to Allen''s eyes as he watched them.
"Yes, I should."
He stole a nce, looking at Linbelle. Different from her previous foolishness, she sat behind him with a practiced posture.
''Something must have happened.
Allen realized that it must''ve been rted to the trial.
Perhaps, within it, if there were anything to do with Julius
No.
He shook his head. Now was not the time to ask such a question.
He took a deep breath.
"Everyone, get a hold of yourself!"
Allen woke up from his dream.
* * *
They began to resolve the incident swiftly.
"We won''t make the same mistake this time."
Perhaps due to being helplessly defeated by the gods ability, the Knight Commander took the lead with a solemn face. After that, the knights and soldiers dispersed into the forest to deal with what remained of the situation.
"How is the god doing?"
"Hes not in good condition, there are still traces of ck magic!"
As soon as the elves came to their senses, they rushed to the god.
Whether it was the aftermath of an excessive use of his powers or a side effect of the forced corruption, the god was being eaten away by the contaminated energy of the ck magic. He was left in a state of somnolence, deeply sunken and unable to wake.
With a sh of memory, Natasha turned away from examining the gods figure and hurriedly approached Julius.
Sir Julius, I apologize for what happened before. I need your help."
"Yes What?"
Shaking off the mindless expression hed been wearing until then, Julius began to purify the body at her request.
His powers were at odds with ck magic, so they were perfect for this kind of work.
Taking advantage of the moment when the soldiers, knights, and elves were all busy working, Allen headed over to the clearing where he fought the giant.
Therey the fallen giant''s corpse and a ruined clearing. He felt a little strange being there, even though he had been in that ce only a few hours ago.
"It hasn''t been that long, but it seems like years have passed.
Do you have any idea how surprised I was? Everyone just copsed all of a sudden!
Perhaps she took Allen''s dull appreciation as aint, speaking despite the several soldiers following them.
Thank god you came to your senses so quickly. What would you have done if Id just been left there for years! Your guard was down!
"I''m sorry about that, but you really didnt go through any of the gods trials?
Do you not get it? I protected you in case someone attacked you, but you can''t even say thank you!
"Thank you very much.
Ahem. I suppose I was the only one left, right?
Allen smiled bitterly, listening to Vess shouts.
I cant believe she didnt go through a trial.
Do inanimate objectsnoego swords not fall within the target range?
Or, instead, maybe she was able to avoid the gods trials because
''There''s nothing she wants?
Since the gods power dealt with trials and rewards, someone might be able to avoid said trials if they didnt want anything in the first ce.
However, as soon as the concept took form in his mind, Allen denied it.
That can''t be true.
Hurry up! I''ve been so curious about this ce.
It wouldnt make sense to assume that there wasnt anything she wanted. He just had to recall the reaction shed had to the giant earlier.
Rather, it was more usible that her mental strength was more powerful than the god, so his ability didnt work on her.
"Okay, let''s go slowly. We don''t know what''s there."
Allen had been on high alert since falling into the dark sorcerers trap and being swept away by the gods trial.
However, the building was empty, rendering his anxiety useless.
"There''s nothing here.
Passing by a copsed wall, he could see the messy interior. Bodies of monsters piled up in heaps, and various materials were left scattered around. The room had a rotten stench, and all of the internal structure appeared to have copsed. Looking at the remains of the broken walls and the once-straight passageway, he concluded that the now deceased giant had run through here.
Could it have been a chimera?
There had been something wrong with the monsters regeneration and strength. Perhaps its appearance was close to that of a real giant, but its abilities were only half-baked.
Allen scanned the room with his senses and called in the soldiers waiting outside the building to conduct a search.
Even so, he didn''t expect to find anything useful.
Given the soot and traces of burn marks lining the floor and walls, it wouldve been strange to assume that any form of important information wouldve survived intact.
"Did you find anything?"
Ves answered Allen''s question in a disappointed voice, No. I thought I''d feel something once we got inside, but I can''t find anything.
"I''m sorry."
No, its okay. I''ve achieved my goal anyway. She muttered in a rxed tone before shouting again in a cheerful tone. Now that we''re done here, lets go out there! I think the god is awake!
Allen ordered those searching to collect whatever remaining information they couldjust in caseand headed toward the chorus of murmuring voices.
"Its a real god, huh
"Its not going to attack us again, is it?"
When he arrived after passing by the soldiers, he saw the god handing Julius a small egg.
Chapter 60
Chapter 60
The god in his true form was enormous.
His body and long snout was reminiscent of a wolfthough one the size of a housewith a mane flowing along his back, pure white fur that glistened in the sun, and purple horns atop his head, all adding to the gods mythical atmosphere.
"God! How could you give the egg to an outsider!"
What''s the problem with entrusting it to the good man who helped me?
It was telepathy, simr to Vess yet still a little different.
"But!"
Enough. This ordeal has forced me into a long, deep slumber, and I choose him to be its guardian it as I sleep.
Then, we elves
Seeing how you elves handled this Im a little skeptical about leaving its protection in your hands.
I Natasha bit her lips in response to the gods answer. In even her eyes, the elves'' handling of the incident was disappointing.
If it werent for the Reinharts support
She rushed to erase what might have happened from her imagination.
He rescued me, he defeated monsters, and he protected the Heavenly Forest. Thus, he is suitablewell qualified, evenfor the task.
Natasha looked at Julius and replied to the gods resolution with a shy look. "Even if you dont entrust us with the task directly, we shall protect you as you sleep.
The god stared at her and nodded. I''ll leave it to you.
Natasha breathed a sigh of relief in response.
Upon sharing his answer, the god ignored her and handed the egg to Julius. Thanks to your help, I was saved from corruption. Though, theres not much I can offer as a reward. Would it be preferable instead to offer myself as your guardian
"Yes! I will dly ept your protection.
Julius nodded without even thinking.
Stop the dark sorcerer trying to take control of the god! Save the god within the time limit! (Completed)
Reward: the god''s favor, ???
Whoa the secret reward was the gods egg?
He recalled a small detail included in the gods trial arc from the novel, something about the power to control tidal waves.
''I need to get it.
If the ''Iridescent Eye'' could not be strengthened using the gods ability, then obtaining this power would be just as beneficial.
I look forward to working with you. And
The god, whod been looking at Julius with warm eyes, turned to Allen.
As soon as Ves met gazes with the god, she rose in front of Allen on her own. Allen quickly reached out to snatch the handle of the sword in case anyone saw.
Who are you grabbing? I called dibs on this one first.
He couldn''t read the god''s expression exactly, but perhaps it was a bitter smile.
For you youve already set your path, so I''ll give you this instead.
"That''s!
Bu-doon!
The elves nearby shouted in surprise as the god removed his horn and blew it.
Don''t resist. I mean no harm.
The purple horn quickly turned into powder and floated to Allen.
Should I dodge it?
No, he couldnt waste his kindness.
Allen nervously inhaled the purple powder.
The moment the powder he breathed in the powder and absorbed it into his body, his senses expanded.
"Ah!"
Unlike the mana that fluctuated in his core, mana outside of his body began to gather around him in waves. The mana surrounding him naturally followed his will. Allen realized that he could use external mana freely in tune with his internal mana.
Wow Now you have both the body of a giant and the heart of a dragon. Im starting to get emotional. Youre almost like a chimera.
It was a new sensea blessing.
But for just a moment, his senses all suddenly amplified, sending him into overwhelming pain.
Allen, Allen? What? Hey! Whats going on?!
His vision expanded like crazy, making him dizzy. The sound of falling leaves became thunder in his ears, and smells of all kinds mixed inside his nose, making him want to vomit. His skin stung as if it had been cut by a knife, and he couldn''t feel anything on his tongue because of just how heightened his sensitivity had be.
"Oh, my god.
Allen''s face turned ashen from the abnormal paining from his five senses.
Oh, it''s too soon.
As the god blew out another unexpected note, Allen inhaled a turquoise-colored powder, different from the purple one.
Cough. Gasp.
After breathing in several times, Allen was relieved to feel normal again.
''Heightened senses are more of a curse than a blessing.
The god apologized glumly, seeming truly regretful. I''m sorry. I didn''t mean for that to happen. Please forgive me.
"That''s all right. I know it wasn''t intentional."
Ill adjust it so that your senses arent so severely heightenedonly as much as is possible to handlein order to make sure this won''t happen again.
Just as the god promised, he felt his five senses getting gradually more sensitive, but only to an extent he could handle.
But how much more sensitive am Ipared to my baseline senses?
He didn''t expect how much this could add to his strength, should the skill be employed productively.
Allen smiled and thanked him.
Julius was annoyed, evident by theck of his normal, slightly subtle expression that showed his pleasure, but Allen was not embarrassed because he expected it to some extent.
I didnt think hed choose me over him
Hed only gone through the gods trial in an attempt to find traces of his younger brother, but he didn''t think hede out with such a reward.
The god then tried to bless the Knight Commander forpleting the search. But he refused, saying he didn''t want to be given any outside assistance.
The elves were surprised by this.
"I''m sorry, god."
However, the Knight Commander did not budge from his stance.
The elves normally would have shouted that he was arrogant, but they respected his choice instead, perhaps because of the aid hed given them.
Havingpleted her task that Allen had ordered of her, Inellia came to stand at his side.
Natasha spoke next. "Thank you, sir."
"No, Princess Natasha. I only hope that our rtionship will recover."
"I''ll do my utmost best for the sake of that as well."
"Well then, we shall take our leave."
After saying farewell to the elves, Allen left the Heavenly Forest.
Julius watched Natasha''s back with lingering eyes until the veryst moment, and Cami watched Julius just the same, as if shed realized something.
"Well"
Allen, now in a very different environment, shouted as he watched Inellia ask Linbelle this and that. Lets head home!
It was time to go back to the manor.
And
''In a few months
Finally, the time hade to head to the Academy.
* * *
* * *
A tombstone was erected for the dead. Though the dead didnt really need tombstones. Such a thing was for the living, instead. For the remembrance of the dead, for the memories of the living.
Then who was a tombstone of the living for?
"Happy birthday, Sir Julius!"
"I''ve heard of your aplishments in the Heavenly Forest! How incredible
Pitter, patter, pitter, patter.
Allen walked alone in the dark hallway.
It was raining heavily outside. The ck clouds gobbled up all the light that might otherwise have been in the sky.
"Sir, we have ess to plenty of the finest gems
Although Im not sure what Sir julius would like best, I humbly offer this bottle of wine, aged 200 years
He could hear the chatter from the faraway banquet hall.
But in that dark hallway, there was no one but Allen.
"B-by chance, that egg next to you Is that from the rumor
"Its so amazing hearing all that Sir Julius did
Not evening from his destination.
"Hahaha, thank you very much, everyone."
It had already been a day since hed returned from the Heavenly Forest. In the meantime, the rumors had spread, and many nobles had their interest piqued.
"I would like to thank everyone who attended the banquet to celebrate my birthday."
They were so interested that they epted the familys birthday invitations, which they ordinarily would have ignored.
"As I reach the end of this year of life, Id like to propose a toast to my health, well-being, and good fortune for the year toe
Their purpose may not have truly been to celebrate his birthday, but it didnt matter. The familys goal, too, was certainly to promote its own longevity.
The sight Allen came to see was finally before him once again after so long. The garden was still in full bloom.
The damp wind swept across his face, as he saw it at the corner of that familiar path.
A tower of stones. Hed piled it up right after his regression, and when he stayed in the manor, he visited it often.
But perhaps, could it have been due to the strong winds?
It copsed.
Allen knelt to the floor on one knee. He didn''t mind the dirt getting on his clothes.
And then he slowly began to pile up the tower of stones again. The stones, submerged in the pale soil, smelled almost fishy from all of the moss.
But what was the point of that action?
Allenughed bitterly as he erased the thoughts from his mind. Soon after, the tower of stones stood once more.
"Theres not even much time left. I wont be able to keep seeing this for long."
Topple.
Allen watched as the small tower slowly fell apart.
There was no name.
No body, no offering.
Not even a will.
"Julius."
Just an empty cry with no meaning, no message, no value.
Just something to remember him.
Even if it was only an act performed for the sake of self-satisfaction, Allen began as if speaking to his brother.
"Julius."
However, this wasnt a grave.
He didn''t think his lost brother was dead, and he wasnt nning to give up on getting him back.
Nevertheless, Allen continued. He couldn''t stop talking.
"It''s already been so long."
Hed seen him in his forgotten dream.
"A lot has happened in the meantime. Ive made new resolutions, and Ive realized something again."
Whether it was real, fake, or maybe even just a fantasy generated along with the trial itself.
"How are you doing? I''m sure youre doing well. I dont really know for sure but Im sure youre doing just fine.
Maybe it was just a terrible delusion.
"A lot of really distinguished people came to your party this year.
Nevertheless
"Today is your birthday, isn''t it?
Wouldn''t it be a little unfair if no one really celebrated him?
"Heres a gift."
He opened the cap off the bottle of wine he was holding.
Your favorite. I hope you like it."
Allen forced up the corners of his mouth into a smile.
Perhaps it was because hed been outside for a long time, the water droplets running down his face felt a little hot.
"To Julius''s 16th birthday!"
To Julius!
The voices from the banquet hall carried across the air, all the way to the wine.
The liquor, mixed with the raindrops, flowed down the stones, permeating through the stone tomb.
"Congrattions!"
Allen opened his mouth, savoring the cheers that grazed his ears.
"Julius."
He truly believed that he was alive. So then, someday, somehow
"It''s your 16th birthday.
So, please
"Happy birthday."
He hoped he could wait, just until he could kill the other him.
He sincerely hoped and prayed.
Step, step.
Then, he heard something.
It was the sound of hasty footsteps. Allen''s cold eyes turned to the sourcethe hallway by the window on the manors second floor.
Allen shook the raindrops off his face, spreading out his senses. The ck figure moved at a high speed.
Who could it be? The Knight Commander? Inellia or Linbelle?
Maybe it was one of the guests who came for the celebration this year.
But the mystery person quickly disappeared into the banquet hall before Allen''s senses could reach them.
Allen stopped concentrating on his senses as they stretched right up to the banquet hall entrance.
"A beatte.
It would be highly disrespectful to spread his senses out into the room full of nobles.
There was no way that the escorts brought there would allow him to examine their masters at will, so he decided to quit there.
Sigh.
Allen rose from his seat.
It was time to go back to his usual self. The him who was always in perfect condition, fully at ease. The firstborn son of the Reinhart family.
Under the shadow of the gray sky, the heavy rain washed away the pile of gray stonesAllens stone tomb.
* * *
Time flew by.
Winter painted the world white then passed, and spring began to arrive with the rise of new life.
Allen met with Acanders, who came to the city afterpleting the reorganization.
"I''m a littlete. I apologize."
The Acanders he met this time was different. Unlike thest time when he was drunk, he wore a neat uniform and lowered his head in a polite way, revealing his intelligent eyes.
"You have a very different attitude from before.
Since you have nominally be my master, shouldnt you share your life with the public? He added, "if you don''t want to be bitten by a mad dog."
Allen smirked at the sight. Standing by him, Inellia looked at Acanders with displeasure, but he didn''t pay her any mind.
Allen certainly thought that this was much more like him.
''This is better than hiding your ns, feigning obedience.''
"So" Acanders raised his bowed head. "What should we do?"
Allen recounted the story that hed told Soned and Karik. Recently, illegal trade had been ramping up in their territory, and because it was being kept under wraps, it was difficult to pin down.
"Youll hear more from the two people who will work with you."
"Alright." Acanders nodded modestly.
He had expected that he would be in charge of chores like this. Wouldn''t it be strange for Allen to leave him doing absolutely nothing after working so hard to get him on his side?
"And the most important thing you have to do there is to gather people."
"People?"
When Acanders hinted at his confusion, Allen said lightly, "You just have to do what you usually do."
"I"
"Isn''t it best to gather up the people who have a grudge against Julius?"
Perhaps sensing something in Allen''s words, Acanders looked tense. "What are you going to use them for?
Would it be necessary for them to suffer the same damage from Julius as he had before they would go with him?
Or depending on how he talks about them now, I can feel out how Im supposed to go about this.
Acanders was smart enough to think of acting like a fool in front of him.
But Allen, uncaring of what he thought, waved his hand in response. Just do what you normally do. If you find people who have been hurt because of Julius, help them out. Allocate those people to different tasks and train them ordingly. "You just have to wait for the right time."
"Wait?
"Yes." He didnt intend to use them forbat. "Its all just to prepare for the future, just think of it like that.
"I see." Acanders had yet to see Allen''s true intentions, but still nodded. He didn''t seem willing to tell him anyway, so it was better to just do as he ordered. "Then, what shall we name this new organization?
"You know, I was thinking
Wait a minute!
He paused.
I want to decide the name! Let me decide!
Arcanders looked suspicious when Allen suddenly stopped talking. "Is everything alright?
"Yes, I was just distracted, thinking of a good name.
Acanders nodded coolly at his excuse. "Oh, is that so? Then, what name
Skoll! Do skoll!
"Skoll sounds good.
"Squall, like a sudden gust of wind that sounds like a good name for us. Acanders immediately agreed that Allen''sor to be exact, Vessname choice was good. "Lets go with that name."
Let''s take this week off and start working next week. I''ll introduce you to the two people who will work together with you soon."
"Thank you."
Three days after the conversation with Acanders, Soned and Karik came to him.
Allen had them all meet together with Acanders, then called them out separately to speak.
"What happened to that thing I asked about? Is it all ready?"
Before going to the Heavenly Forest, he had secretly contacted them.
"Yes, I had a lot of the necessary materials in storage already, so the preparation itself went smoothly.
"Then"
Allen looked at the manor where Julius was staying with a smiling face.
"Do as nned."
Chapter 61
Chapter 61
Julius headed to the drawing room when he got word that there was a merchant there to see him.
"Sir, is there some fun event going on today? You look to be in a good mood."
"Oh, Laina." Julius smiled at her, following him like always. "I think Im going to be able to buy some decent goods at a reasonable price."
"Is that so?"
"Yes, and this is all thanks to my reputation. Once people get famous, good things really do starting to them, huh.
Laina wondered if there had been an order sent from above.
I thought nothing was supposed to happen for a while.
All she had to do was look after Julius until he went to the Academy.
"Congrattions."
"If there''s anything good for sale, I''ll share it with you.
Julius entered the drawing room with a confident face.
Click!
In the drawing room, a young merchant jumped to his feet with surprise.
"H-hello! Nice to meet you!"
It seemed as if he had only just begun to learn the trade.
Laina was suspicious of his appearancefar too young in the face to be considered a top-notch merchantbut kept quiet as she sat behind Julius.
For the most part, those whod tried to pull one over Julius hadnt met good ends.
Time would tell if he, too, would meet a simr fate.
"Yes, nice to meet you. Im Julius Reinhart.
"Yes, yes, I know. I''ve heard much about your reputation!"
Julius chatted a little longer rather than making a deal right away, perhaps because he liked the way the merchants ttery made him feel.
Well Im sure you have ess to plenty of other suitable clients, so why did you choose toe deal with me?
He had an elder brother and a father that the merchant couldve chosen instead.
"Cough, cough. What? Well, um Would you like to take a look at what I have to offer?
He couldnt stop himself from bursting out intoughter for much longer.
"Alright."
As soon as those words left his lips, the merchant took out the various items that he had prepared in advance.
"Yes, first off, this item is a potion called Carrens Beam of Light. It changes the bodys manaposition.
"Wow So then, what would you say to
Thus, Julius was able to obtain the helpful potion at a price much lower than the market value.
When the deal was over, Julius smiled and began, "Yes, well, if you continue to acquire such items I''ll continue to keep an eye out for you.
Julius needed conditions to be set up where he could buy high-quality goods, and the merchant needed a reliable supporter to protect him.
"Thank you so much!"
"Likewise."
When Julius showed signs of getting up with his newly acquired items, the young merchant politely reached out his hand.
"Please take good care of us in the future, too!"
Karik, the young merchant, beamed at him.
"Yes. I look forward to working with you."
Julius returned his smile with a wide one of his own, left unaware.
* * *
Time was like a raging wave.
When news of the incident first spread, people showed great interest in the order of session. A chimera sorcerer who captured people. Bandits invading the festival. Witches spreading curses. And now, even dark sorcerers infiltrating the Heavenly Forest. No matter how normal the incidents may have been, the events preceding one after the other and the aptitude that the Reinhart family disyed in solving them were bound to draw attention.
However, as time passed, people became ustomed to the news and the changes that came with them.
The Reinharts were attempting to restore their rtionship with the elves, and they had begun to inquire after bing more engaged in trade with the surrounding territories.
As the time to leave the manor approached, Allen processed what had been obtained from the Heavenly Forest.
"Hmm Was this the only thing you found?
There were several maps in front of him, traces of fire burned across its surface.
"Yes. Just as you said, sir, I looked around a few more ces All the remaining hiding ces had already been cleared out."
Shortly after the giant was killed, Allen had ordered Inellia to investigate some of the hiding ces listed in the ck book.
If things had gone as they had before his regression, they could have gotten information about who was behind it all.
I didnt expect the dark sorcerers to do this.
He thought hed been careful about the butterfly effect. He thought hed prepared enough so he could use the changed future to his advantage.
But that had just been an illusion.
Allen''s present, which he had identally changed little by little, had in turn changed the future he knew, causing enough of an effect that the dark sorcerers decided instead to sacrifice themselves in order to trigger the gods trials.
And in the process, they also wiped away all trace of themselves.
"I''m sorry I couldn''t help you."
Inellia looked somber, thinking she hadnt been useful.
"No, it cant be helped. Their behavior was different than expected."
Not getting the information was upsetting, but hed had a vague suspicion that it would turn out that way.
In the end, they hadnt gotten any intelligence they could use, not even from the site from which the giant appeared to have escaped.
"Even so"
"Ill say it again, it''s not your fault"
What are you doing? Tell her that its all okay by giving her a little pat! Thatd be even better than a real hug! Ves cried in a teasing tone.
so theres no reason to feel as though you should take responsibility.
Allen ignored Ves''s words ringing in his head.
Oh! You''re ignoring me again! Just trust me. Tell her shes a suuuper talented, beautiful genius!
You are absolutely insufferable Allen looked at Ves with an annoyed expression.
What! Am I wrong? Hurry up and tell her shes pretty!
Rejecting whatever she said, he turned his back on her, half-ignoring her words as she repeated them several times.
"I see."
Even with his constion, Inellias expression remained cloudy with discontent.
Look! Trust me.
Allen red at the distracting sound.
Sooner orter, I''ll have to learn how to talk back to her in my head.
He figured his patience would run out at this rate.
* * *
* * *
Allen suddenly realized that she hade alone and changed the subject, asking a question, "What is Linbelle doing right now?"
"Oh, Linbelle is
Inellia answered with an ambiguous smile.
"She headed to the kitchen to make a dessert for you."
"Again?"
Allen looked fed up.
"Yes, I''ll tell her to stop if you''re ufortable."
"No, it''s fine. It''s not like I dont enjoy the food or anything.
Linbelle had changed. He couldn''t pinpoint what exactly it was about her, but it was easy to identify the biggest change.
Knock, knock.
"Sir, I''ming in."
She wasnt in a hurry anymore.
"Alright."
It was so different from how impatient she used to be. So much so that Allen was nearly certain shed gained something significant from the trial the god had given her.
''I think something happened during her trial
But the thing was, even she didnt know what it was.
It was because the god had been overwhelmed when the trials were triggered. Usually, each of them would have remembered the events of their trials.
Perhaps it was due to just how well developed the gods abilities were. The trial had been triggered for hundreds of people at once. However, even Linbelle, who was believed to have passed her trial, could not avoid the aftermath of the ordeal.
Give it a taste, sir.
Having been permitted to enter the office, Linbelle arrived with the prepared tea and refreshments, setting them on the desk with an experienced touch.
Alright."
The peaceful scent of woonds and nature sent a wave of refreshment as she approached.
Is this smell woodsy? White sandalwood?
"You started using perfume."
"Yes! Miss Eliza rmended it."
"I see Then did Mother choose this scent for you?"
"No, I chose it myself.
"It smells good."
She answered with a big smile. "Thank you, sir."
It was the same kind of smell that appeared in his dreams. Dreams where Allen thought hed seen her making tea skillfully, unlike before.
It seemed clear that there was a reason why her attitude had changed so much.
However, iming that she couldnt remember much herself, she had no choice but to give up on exining her personal development.
"It seems like there''s something lying just under the surface, but
She also didn''t know anything about Julius, so he was able to dismiss that.
"Sir?"
He turned his head toward her voice. Linbelle was facing him with sparkling eyes.
Allen couldn''t ignore her surely meaningful gaze and picked up a cookie with a bitter face.
"It''s delicious again today.
A vor that seemed to have been specially tailored to his taste. The tea was to his liking as well.
It almost felt as though shed been with him for years.
Meanwhile, Inellia seemed shocked by Linbelles new cooking skills, arguably better than her own.
"I''m d you liked it.
"As I said before, you don''t have to do this."
She smiled softly, as if she had an opinion on his remark, replying firmly, "I am your maid, sir."
"If thats what you Do as you please."
"Yes, sir!"
Allen didnt quite know how to handle her change in attitude, but he didn''t say much.
It''s better than before.
A month had passed.
Allen called in Acadners to ask for a few things as he prepared to leave.
"Finish up getting the organization ready over the next half-year, and then have everything prepared by the time I arrive at the Academy.
"When you say the Academy, do you mean that ce in the Galshdin Desert?"
"Yes." Allen nodded and handed him the papers thatpiled all the information on Baron Fern''s whereabouts.
However, he did not tell him about the forces that helped Julius nor his suspicious appearance.
''He wouldn''t believe it anyway.
Having him discover the information on his own would be more effective than just telling him directly.
Acanders looked a little doubtful about whether he could receive information so easily.
''I thought he''d give me some light information at best.
For years, he tried to build others trust and gather clues little by little. So he didn''t expect to be handed over what appeared to be the whole of the information from the outset.
"I don''t think it''s my ce to say this, but Do you really trust me that much? What if I were to betray you?
All the more so because he didn''t think he''d give him all of the avable information about his father in the first ce.
Allen shook his head, as if he had nothing to say.
"I don''t trust you. But I do trust your desperation. Didn''t you say you wanted to find your father?"
Acanders bowed his head, looking torn. "Thank you."
Soned and Karik were also instructed to send information regrly on top of a few other requests.
After dealing with issues big and small, Allen hadpleted his preparations.
"If something dangerous happens, it''s okay toe back."
"I''ll keep that in mind."
It was time to leave.
"Don''t do anything reckless," Eliza said to Allen, who was looking toward Julius as he greeted Gaielle. "I don''t know what you''re thinking, but Don''t do anything too dangerous."
"Alright."
He would be carefulmaking a n before acting.
She sighed, wondering if she could find signs of regret on his face. "You''ll be fine all on your own."
Allen nodded silently at her words.
"Now, go. Isnt your brother waiting for you?
Julius shouted from behind her.
"Allen! Wee!"
The buds, dormant during the winter, sprang up, and even the cold wind had transformed itself with the changing season, filling the air with the fresh life of spring.
"Okay, don''t rush me."
It was time to head to the Academy.
* * *
He had to matricte into Galshdin Academy.
That was the conclusion he came to after realizing that Julius had been possessed by the protagonist from a novel.
Fwip.
It was a logical n.
Following some slight character growth in the beginning of their story, the Academy was to be the setting for the full-fledged story to begin.
After arriving at the Academy, he found it to be quite splendid.
A ce filled with all of the present knowledge of mankind.
A ce overflowing with relics and new knowledge sourced from the ruins of the Great Desert.
Fwip.
There was much there that could bepared to that of modern times, as elves and dwarves, and beasts and humans all came together to create its unique atmosphere
Well, it was only natural.
The purpose of that setting was to foster the next generation of warriors who would seed the First Warrior and lend themselves to his original purpose.
Although that purpose had lost its rity over time, its obscurity had not changed that talented people from each country flocked to
Thump.
Allen closed the ck book.
The next line was blurry, and the seeding words illegible.
That would change, bing more clear over time, but hed ascertained enough information for the time being.
Galshdin Academy.
Allen didn''t know much about it.
At most, he knew that the ce had been built on top of the Holy Sword used by the First Warrior, and that the Holy Sword had yet to find its next owner. That, and the fact that two of the Top Eight always resided there.
Further information was difficult to confirm because of the variety of circting rumors, making it hard to be sure of anything.
But one thing was certain.
I could find a way to get my little brother back there.
He had hopes for things like the Great Library, which was open to the students of the Academy, and the auction house, which was said to have just about everything pass through its doors.
As Allen nned out in his head what he had to do at the Academy, Ves''s voice rang out through his thoughts.
Tell me a funny story! What about one about defeating a dragon? I can talk back, too, since itd be pretty boring otherwise! Isnt it so nice how we help each other out?
Allen sighed.
"Can''t I enjoy a little bit of contemtion?
The Great Desert.
It had already been a month since hed left his family.
Personally, I''ve had enough of that already! Lets have a conversation!
Allen and his party were heading to the nearest city to the Academy.
The Reinhart family was located on the west side of the continent, so it took a long time to reach the Great Desert, located in its central region.
"Sir, are you really talking to the sword?
Linbelle had seen it ur several times, but the more she saw it, the more amazed she became.
Inellia didn''t say anything about it, but she, too, believed it was strange. Whenever she saw the sword floating in the air on its own, she focused in with her ears, peeping into their conversation.
Have you never seen a sword speak? I guess it is pretty cool, isnt it?
"What are you saying now?
Ah! Youre so frustrating! Hey, hurry up. Tell me a story!
Allen''s head was throbbing.
Chapter 62
Chapter 62
Being all together for the past month, there was a limit to how much he could talk to Ves, so he finally told them that she was an Ego Sword.
They were surprised at first, but after seeing the way she floated along in the air, they epted it. Ves, surprisingly, didnt even put up a fight about the reveal.
But the problem remained. They still couldnt have a conversation altogether.
Ves''s voice could not be heard by anyone else.
Therefore, in order tomunicate, they had no choice but to rely on Allen, the only one who could talk to all parties involved.
"I''ll figure out a way for everyone tomunicate after we get to the Academy, so I''ll just put up with it for now."
Its a n!
"Right"
Her prattling personality made Allen, who preferred to be more stoic, very exhausted.
Utterly. Exhausted.
He discovered more and more about himself as they continued on toward their destination.
They had already passed along through three or four small countries, allowing them to see exotic ecosystems not found in the west.
"Wow, sir!! These are edible mushrooms, right?
"Linbelle, put that down. It''s a poisonous mushroom. Wash your hands clean."
"Ah I see
Nothing too eventful happened apart from that one near-mistake made midway through their journey.
The temperature rose far higher as they headed ind.
Unlike home, where the spring breeze was quite cold, the weather got hotter and hotter as they headed toward the Great Galshdin Desert, and their thick clothes dwindled to thinner and thinneryers.
"Brother, should we take a rest and stay here for a few days?
We should.
On their way to the Academy, Julius would disappear then return every few days
"Look, Brother. I found a rare herb over there."
and when hede back, he always returned holding something valuable in his hands. Or hed go off with Byron and Anya for a time.
Andof courseLaina, his personal maid.
Allen smiled with a touch of subtlety, not preventing Julius from carrying on with what he was doing.
"You have good luck."
"Yes, I guess I am pretty lucky. Hahaha!"
As his actions changed the future, Allen knew that ''Quest Rewards'' and clues to obtain other fun items that were not recorded in the ck book would appear.
Though, it wasnt like the value of the things he was finding were that significant.
''I need to loosen up a bit.''
After all, he had used his own information from that very system to siphon the reward from Julius at Mount Nicaea just the other day. He needed to leave it be for the time being.
If Allen were to take away all of his rewards, Julius would surely lose faith in the ''System'' eventually. Though seeing how much of Julius''s actions were influenceddirectly or indirectlyby the System, it would be difficult for him to fully lose trust in it.
His behavior should lie within predictable bounds.
Thus, after packing up from their break, the party had a fairlyfortable journey.
And after another month had passed
"Finally."
Wow! We''re finally here!
They arrived in Kairan, the City of Adventure, one of several cities where they could enter the Great Desert in which the Academy was located.
There were various magical sites located throughout the continent, from a small poisonous swamp to the ins of Nastrond, home to eternal warfare. The spections surrounding the significance behind these sites were diverse, but implicitly speaking, it was simple.
Magical sites were ces unfit for human beings to inhabit, or in principle, areas that could not be pioneered by humans, whether due to artificial or natural reasons.
That''s why dark sorcerers who use artificially crafted magic treat them as free to im.
The Great Desert was one of those sites.
It wasnt just any magical site, but an incrediblyrge one, spanning the central region of the continent. With the terrains barrenndscape and the monsters which appeared from every angle, just crossing it was seen as an achievement.
Why was the Academy built in such a ce?
"There are many reasons, but to tell you one thats more widely known
The Holy Sword.
The reason why the Academy had been built there was because it was where the First Warriors Holy Sword had been found.
Well then, why cant they just move the Holy Sword? Why did they need to build something there?
There was a simple exnation for that, too.
Because they couldnt move it.
What?
Those who first discovered the sword had also nned to move it. However, such a thing could only be done by the master of the sword, and thus, the Holy Sword would not budge.
Even so, they didnt need to build the Academy right on top of it, did they?
"That''s a good point Maybe it was a sign of the times.
Now may be the time to make that judgment, but it wasnt back then.
A sign of the times?
Yeah.
After the Great Fall, the devastated world called out for a hero, and the only hero worthy of that title was the First Warrior.
However, that hero suddenly disappeared shortly thereafter.
When the Holy Sword was discovered, the world could only have seen it as a symbol of hope.
That''s why they built the Academy? They couldnt take it with them, so they just built an entire academy?
"That''s right."
It was a reasonable solution for the conundrum, and that was due to one of the abilities of the Holy Sword: the Sanctuary, which prevented monsters from entering a certain area.
In addition, countless people flocked to the Great Desert after it was revealed that there was an enormous number of ruins to be discovered there.
Adventurers, mercenaries, merchants, nobles, and knights. Many moved to the Great Desert for their own gain, and it was not long before the Academy was established under the usible pretext of raising a hero for the new era.
However, as the city expanded, the number of areas protected by the Sanctuary decreased.
Therefore, they had no choice but to look elsewhere.
"Wow, sir! Look at this!"
That''s how the city was created here.
A city that was minimally affected by the magic of the site, but that also provided ess to enter the desert adjacent to the Great Desert.
"There are so many relics!"
Kairan, the city of adventure, was one of the cities that was formed in that way.
"I''ve only heard stories, but seeing it now, it really is stunning."
Allen was looking around Kairan''s shopping district with Linbelle and Inellia.
Julius left Byron and Anya at the inn, saying he had something to do, and disappeared with Laina alone.
Allen couldn''t take his eyes off the exotic sight of the city. It was his first time seeing it, in both his previous and present life.
"Hey, did you hear the news? Tim''s mercenaries say they got a new relic.
"What? What are they up to now?"
Men with faces of lizards conversed.
There were giant lizard people, golems carrying cargo, cyborg beastmen, bargaining elves, and even children with shells for skin.
Races of all kinds filled the streets, as did numerous relics that he had never seen before.
"What the fuck did you just say?"
When he looked to the side, he saw a mercenary bargaining with a merchant.
"Havent you heard? It''s a recent discovery! A water bottle that automatically fills itself up with water."
"Is there really something like that?"
He spoke with fluid pronunciation, a little different from in the Kingdom of Liber to the west.
The difference in ent and dialect was evident.
"The sorcerer said that it collects water from the air or something So are you going to buy it or not?
"Two gold coins is a little much
When the mercenary showed signs of hesitation, Allen smoothly intervened. "If you''re not going to buy it, can I?"
The merchant saw his clothing as well as Inellia sitting next to him, and immediately cast his sights from the mercenary and bent toward Allen.
"Yes, yes, you can! Of course, sir.
"Then I''ll buy it." Allen held out the gold without even attempting to bargain.
"Oh, thank you, sir!" The merchant opened his mouth wide and epted the gold coin.
The mercenary smacked his lips and began, "But"
As he epted the relics from the merchant, Allen said, "Were there always so few guides to the Academy?"
Guides were required to get to the Academy in the Great Desert.
Upon entering the city, Allen and his party visited the Adventurer''s Guild, but were told that there were no guides avable at the moment.
"Guides?"
Inevitably, the party was forced to stay in the city.
"Yes."
At his words, the merchant nced at his new partner, lowering his eyes again.
"I guess you''re not from here".
"Yes."
"Then you may not know. There''s a reason
As the merchant dragged out his words in hesitation, Allen smirked and bought a few more items. He then smiled, now happy to exin.
* * *
* * *
"Thank you! Come again!"
Come again! You''re such a crook!
Allen slowly exited the shopping district, calming down the fuming Ves.
It was information that you would have figured out if you just walked around a little bit!
The exnation hed received was something he never wouldve conjured up on his own.
Because of a sandstorm
Sandstorms struck periodically in the Great Desert, and a few days ago, signs of a new storm arose.
Unless there was a truly dire need, the guides did not travel during sandstorms.
This event was unexpected seeing as in their past life, Julius had already made it to the city by then, putting the issue entirely off his radar.
What are you going to do? You can''t bete, can you?
"Youre right."
The Academy''s entrance examination could only be taken every six months. Missing this opportunity now meant wasting half a year.
"If its not working out right now, I suppose we have no choice but to pay extra money to get one."
It wouldnt be a small sum, but theyd have no choice if they wanted to arrive in a timely fashion.
I guess I really cant tell the future, like anybody else.
Allen reminded himself that the future he knew that was written in the ck book was part of the old future.
As the party was going back to the Adventurer''s Guild, Linbelle asked him in apparent sudden realization, "Oh! Wait, we''re all different races, but we all speak the samenguage.
Did she only just realize that now?
"Why not ask an elf?
"That''s hehe.
Well, he hadnt been in the mood to care about that at the time.
Allen exined, recalling her unstable appearance. "Its because of the Ancient Empire."
"The Ancient Empire?"
Inellia listened in carefully as well to see whether it was something that would hold her curiosity.
"Yes."
From thenguage and characters they used today to the architecture and fundamental principles ofw, traces of the Ancient Empire could be found in various parts of their modern life.
Of course, time has passed, and many things have been altered depending on the historical nature of thenguage.
Words were abbreviated and new concepts emerged. Those words with obsolete uses went extinct, while others came to have entirely different meanings.
"I''m sure Laura, the head maid, told you at least this much.
As Allen gave her a strange look, Linbelle turned her head in embarrassment and pointed the other way.
"Oh, oh, sir! Look over there! What are they?
Allen turned his head gently, finding a group consisting of those of different races walking by.
No, looking at the group from an angle of heterogeneity, they looked unusualentirely different, even. The men were wrapped in white cloth, with huge scorpion tails protruding from their hips. The women, on the other hand, were covered in ck cloth, with two pairs of spider legsing from holes in the backs of the clothing.
Oh, could that be?
Allen remembered hearing about the two tribes that resided only in the Great Desert as well as their unusual abilities.
There are two tribes in the Great Desert, one of which can act as a guide.
He acted quickly after remembering that crucial information hed skimmed through in the ck book.
Where are you going?
Sir!
Theyd found their way to get to the Academy.
* * *
Julius reflected on the order of events he had read in the original novel as he headed to the slums. Fortunately, it was easy to recall. He hadnt forgotten the more important parts of the story, even after a few months without it.
Behind him, only Laina followed.
"Hmm Is it here?"
He puzzledly looked at the old sign with butterfly patterns on it.
Even though he could remember the major story beats, he wasnt totally sure about the details.
"Still"
He had to check. It was a Quest.
When he opened up the Quest Window, several Sub-Quests appeared as well.
A sandstorm is raging! Find a way to get to the Academy before the entrance exam! Time limit: 13:12:55.
Reward: Increase in Wind affinity
Kill Deswuom, the Ruler of the Desert, and prove yourself (0/1)! Time limit: 172:59:02.
Reward: 1 B-Tier Skill card
Eliminate the traffickers and bandits tormenting travelers and keep the peace (0/20)! Time limit: 34:07:26.
Reward: 3 random sword skill draws
The rewards were decent. He had toplete these over the next few months to get them.
I need a way to get to the Academy while clearing the Quests. Killing two birds with one stone.
Squeeeak.
As he pushed open the wooden door, the rusty hinge screamed, announcing his presence.
Surprisingly, the inside of the bar was clean. He had expected a stench of vomit mixed with other rather unpleasant smells.
When he turned his head, an old man was there, unbothered and wiping down sses at the bar.
Julius strode in front of him and sat down. As he sat, the bartender asked, "What would you like to order, sir?"
"Give me a ss of honey beer if you have one, and to go with it butterflies dipped in snake venom."
He paused, taking in Juliuss words before slowly speaking again. "I''m sorry, but we dont have food like that here."
"No, you guys do have that kind of food. Right? Or, I guess, do you have blueapple pie instead?"
Julius was quite confident when he said that.
The main character did this in the novel, right?
He was certain that there were many scenes where the main character had used those phrases several times to take advantage of the information organization, Psyche, which spanned across the central region of the continent.
He forgot what the main character had done to get this information, but it didn''t matter.
Don''t I just need to know the password, anyway?
While he was focused on his own jubnt mood, the bartender gently grabbed the handle of the dagger from his waistline.
''Saying a butterfly dipped in a snake venom means that Im a member of the same organization.
But he didnt mention a vor to distinguish himself.
"Cant you get me some?
The blueapple pie was a sign that something bad had happened.
"Or what about a poisonous apple? Then, what about hilltop frog hind legs or Dark Garden flower bud soup?"
Poisonous apple meant that something had been discovered that shouldnt have been revealed.
Hilltop frog hind legs meant that a direct order from the boss had been issued.
He said the Dark Garden flower bud soup.
Then, that meant
"I know everything, so just hurry up and bring it! Or bring one of your superiors!"
That person had arrived.
"Can''t you hurry up?"
His eyes shed to Julius.
Information had never been leaked before. The guild recorded all the customer''s information, so it was possible to keep track.
Is he even a member of the same organization?
That wasnt it either.
Did he know the code to get inside?
It was either one of two things.
Someone betrayed them, or one of their customers leaked the code.
And if that wasnt the case
"Why is it so different from what I read?"
Just as the bartender was about to move, his eyes and Laina''s eyes collided.
He hesitated.
"Ha, I''m here to buy some information. Do you understand now?"
He checked the pattern in her eyes, opened his eyes wide, and smiled kindly as if he understood the situation.
"Aha, I see now. I ask for your understanding for taking so long to reply. It''s been quite a while.
Julius smiled contentedly at his answer.
"It''s a shame that the password doesn''t work Alright. Then, I want to get some information.
"I can help you."
As he took them inside the bar, Julius asked curiously, "But can you leave the bar empty? How can you make sure nobody steals anything?"
"That''s not a problem. Hes already here."
When Julius looked back again, a middle-aged man with a calm face came in and sat at the bar.
Julius smiled happily as the scene ovepped with what hed read in the novel.
"Really? Then let''s go. Someone is waiting on me."
"Pleasee this way."
They headed to the basement of the bar.
A white light shed from the ceiling, lighting up the hallway.
"Why does the light keep blinking? You guys don''t have money?
"Haha, it''s because it has been quite a while since it''s been repaired. Ill have it fixed by the next time you visit.
Hed make sure of it.
Chapter 63
Chapter 63
With satisfied steps, Julius headed back toward the inn.
That went better than I thought it would.
Hed even been considering forcibly extracting the information, but he got the information more easily than expected by using his knowledge from the novel.
I''m d it didn''t change muchpared to the original.
Wasn''t it better to buy information through transactions than to take it by force?
It would have taken quite a while to clean up the body, too. News of that couldve then circted around Psyche''s informationwork.
The price for the information was pretty cheap.
The Minima and Arachni tribesthe natural guides of the Great Desert. Hed received a map marking their location, so he would see to it that they soon met.
''He said there were some near the city who picked up their daily necessities.''
He could drop by the inn and then leave right away with their party.
Hearing this news and anticipating their reaction, Julius smiled with vigor and pushed open the wooden door of the inn.
"Brother, I found a way
And
"shall go, huh?"
"Julius, you''re back."
He saw the people in question sitting with Allen.
"Come sit."
A man with a scorpion tail and a woman with two pairs of spider legs.
"Dont keep them waiting."
Julius asked back with a stupid look on his face, "What?"
* * *
Julius, who was standing there looking stupid, sat down with an incredulous expression as Allen addressed him again.
"Say hello. They''re the ones who''ll lead us to the Academy."
Julius bowed his head for a moment with a puzzled face.
Despite his insufficient greeting, the man smiled softly and greeted him politely, the action unexpected given the look of his intimidating tail.
"Nice to meet you. I am Alexius, a priest who serves the wandering stars and their descendants."
And I am Erini, a follower of a different star and their descendents.
When she finished greeting him, Julius looked at Allen for a moment and opened his mouth to speak. "Well, it''s strange to ask this, but how did you find these people, Brother?
Allen saw him looking embarrassed and said with a nonchnt face, "Well, we needed a guide, right? I ran into them on the street just as I was thinking about finding one.
"In the shopping district?
"Yes, I heard stories about them from merchants, so I tried to find them They just happened to be walking right in front of me."
Julius made a strange face and stole a nce back at them.
"Is there something wrong?"
"N-no. So what happened?"
Julius pretended not to be bothered by Allen''s words, but when he realized that the information he had obtained had been rendered useless, he felt quite bitter.
"I invited them in right away. Fortunately, they epted that invitation, and when I talked about our goal, they offered toe with us on one condition."
Alexius and Erini did not deny any of what he said. It seemed to be true.
"What are their terms?
Just as Allen was about to answer Julius'' question, Alexius intervened, ying with his dirty blond hair.
"Would you mind if we exined from here?"
"If youd like."
After Allen permitted it, Alexius bowed his head quietly and continued, "To put it bluntly, we want just one simple thing."
He winked at Erini, signaling her to take over.
"If the two of you seed in entering the Academy, then just this one thing will do. We want you to support the excavation of ruins of our choosing.
"That is all."
Julius'' eyes briefly met those of Erini.
"A condition like this shouldnt be too much trouble for you all."
Matricting into the Academy was tantamount to proving your connections or talents. Thus, if they were to pass the exam, it would be clear that their skills would be of great help in excavating ruins.
"Moving during sandstorms poses quite the risk to us, so I don''t think our terms are too excessive, Alexius finished his exnation with a calm look.
They were right. It was a reasonable price to ask for their help.
If Julius and I work together with them, the ruins should be easy to take care of.
It was a mutually beneficial deal.
Julius nodded immediately,ing to the same conclusion. "If that''s the case I ept."
When Julius epted the conditions, they rxed, breathing a sigh of relief.
Julius, finding their behavior unexpected, asked Allen with a questioning expression, "But you couldve just epted the terms of the deal. You didnt have to ask me, so why did you?
"How can I decide on my own without asking if you agreed first?"
"Asking me?"
Julius was speechless for a moment.
"Were in this together. I cant just make decisions for all of us.
Julius felt his bitter heart rx instantly upon hearing this useless bit of information.
Watching the two brothers, Ves whispered quietly, You know, you''re rather tricky, right?
Shhh.''
Allen knocked on the handle of his sword, as if telling her to be quiet, making Ves mumble to herself before bing silent again.
As Allen and Julius conversed, Alexius and Erini watched their disy of brotherhood with warm eyes.
"Sir Allen says that hes in it together with his brother, so he won''t make a decision alone."
"It''s a rare sort of fraternity, indeed."
Hearing their warm words, Julius shook off the terrible thoughts that had been lingering in his mind.
''I can''t forcefully intimidate these people like the members of Psyche.''
His brother was watching, too.
He didnt know how hed behave if he were alone.
"Well then, now that were all on the same page. We dont have much time left, so let''s get going."
"I''m ready."
As Allen instructed the other members of their party to pack their bags, Inellia appeared to have already prepared, as if she had been packing in advance during their conversation.
"Others of the tribe are close by, so we should be able to move quickly."
When Alexius and Erini stood together, Allen turned to Julius. "Do you have anything else to do, Julius?"
"I''m all done, so Im ready to move now."
"Really?"
Had he really achieved all of his objectives while they were in the city?
"Then we''ll try to get there without any breaks if we can."
There were about two more weeks left before the start of the Academys entrance exam.
* * *
* * *
The party left the city and headed for the tribes, who were camped out nearby.
As they headed toward the outspread tents, members of the two tribes came running with their scorpion tails and spider legs.
Like Alexius and Erini, the other members of the tribe were not wary of the party, as if the news of theiring arrival had been reported to them in advance.
"Mr. Alexius!"
Miss Erini!
They were instantly surrounded by those of other races.
Allen wore an intrigued expression.
"There is only one gender in each race
Hed learned various tidbits of knowledge through the ck book and could not hide his wonder.
The reason for this was simple: the Minami tribe, the race with scorpion tails, was only male, and the Arachni tribe, the race with the spider legs, was only female.
Another interesting thing was their hair color.
I didnt realize when we were only with the two before, but
When he looked at all the members of the tribe, most of them had ck hair. Only a few of them had blond hair like Alexius and Erini.
No, it didnt really matter.
''Well, its not like any ordinary person couldve made that decisive call on the spot.''
It was impossible not to know by this point. They had a special status.
Did you approach them on purpose, knowing that?
Of course not.
It was just fate.
He had stumbled upon them on the street and found out that their tribes just so happened to be guides, which he and his party needed to get to the Academy. And then, the ones who they had asked just so happened to be in a position where they could have a final say on that decision at that very moment.
This whole thing was just a ''coincidence''.
It''s just a coincidence.
Allen''s eyes brushed over the white book that was circling in the air for a moment.
Then Julius called out to him.
"Brother, what are you looking at?"
Allen took his eyes off the book in response and returned them to those surrounding him.
"I''ve never seen such a sight before."
That would make sense Theyre the only ones who live here.
Allen smiled as he spoke, but inside, he, too, was quite surprised.
How careless.
Hed almost repeated Juliuss mistake.
Allen made a note to himself to be more cautious, as Alexius approached with an apologetic look.
"Weve kept you waiting so long. I''m sorry. The tribal chief is ready for us, so follow me."
The tribal chief was a rigid old man with pale blond hair.
"I''ve already heard your story. Not to worry, I will ept your request."
"I will keep my promise, so I hope you, too, will not worry."
The old man gave a wide smile when Allen answered as the partys representative. "I will not. That''s how fate is meant to be.
"Do you still believe in fate?"
The old man quietly answered Allen''s question with ease, "It is as was professed.
"Is that so?"
Allen had no choice but to nod at his words.
It was clear that their religion was quite prevalent in their culture, between the self-proimed priest and their talk of being descendants of the stars.
Although Allen didnt understand, he didn''t argue because it was clear that they wouldn''t understand him either.
I don''t know what ever became of Miss Francisca.
It was clear that something had happened, but there was no way to hear news of her because she went to the magic tower after the incident with the chimera sorcerer.
"It''ste now, so youll depart tomorrow morning. Alexius will guide you to where you will stay."
As Allen was about to leave the tent, his eyes suddenly turned to the lithograph next to the old man.
"Hm?"
It was a picture of nine celestial bodies orbiting around the sun.
Alexius readily exined the rare lithographic painting.
"Oh, are you interested in that stone tablet? The stars gifted it to us in ancient times."
It was an unfamiliar painting to some, but not to Allen.
Its like the dagger I got after killing the chimera sorcerer.
The same pattern appeared there.
"But what exactly caught your attention?"
Its just that we know that nothing else but our Earth revolves around the Sun.
Alexius nodded, as if he were familiar with Allen''s doubt. "It''s natural for us to be met with difficulty when trying to understand the intention passed down in the gifts from the stars. It must contain meaning that we are yet to undestand.
Allen epted his words without much thought.
"Come, lets be off. The head of the Arachni tribe awaits."
After leaving the tent, the party followed Erini to broker a deal with the head of the Arachni tribe. Allen gently probed their guide, Alexius, for information along the way so that he could learn about their connection with Estedor, the group of dark sorcerers.
"By any chance, could you tell me more about that lithograph from earlier? I am sorry if its rude to ask."
"Sometimes even the sorcerers of our tribe ask that same question, theres no need to worry."
"I can''t help it. Its a subject that I have no choice but to be interested in as a sorcerer.
Unfortunately, however, Alexius didn''t know much either.
Before the Great Fall, the stone tablet descended from the sky on the very day that the Holy Spirit they served appeared. Following that, prophecies continued toe down every few decades, even now.
"I''m sorry I couldn''t be of much help."
"No, thank you for just telling me all you knew.
After that, they spent the day in tents provided by the tribe, wrapping up the final preparations before the sandstorm.
"Ten days should be enough, even if the sandstorm dys us a bit."
"I''m excited to arrive.
And after passing their cold nights and hot days in the dry, sandy wind
"Sir Allen! We''ve finally arrived at the Academy!"
"Yes, it appears we have."
they arrived at Galshdin Academy.
Chapter 64
Chapter 64
The citys gates were crowded with students in Academy uniforms, mercenaries whodpleted their raids of ruins, merchants looking to strike gold, and children ying around. It was a direct contrast to the surrounding cities, which were on lockdown to protect themselves from the oing sandstorm.
It was also a testament to their belief in the city and the Holy Sword.
"We''ll be on our way."
When Allen looked back, those who hed be familiar with over thest few days were already turning around.
"Leaving already? Why don''t we go into the city together? I''d like to thank you for all your hard work
"We simply did our part."
Allen urged them several more times, but Alexius just shook his head with a calm smile.
"That''s all right. There''s no point in going to the city because we''ve already replenished all of our supplies in Kairan."
"Then take this at least, please." Allen reached out and gave him a small purse that hed asked Inellia to prepare in advance.
"This is"
"It''s a token of my appreciation. I should hope you wont say no to this."
Alexius looked troubled by the weight of the heavy gold coins, but eventually epted Allen''s gift. "On behalf of the tribe, thank you."
"Nonsense, I still feel as though Ive paid too little for all your help."
He didnt know how long theyd be staying, but he did know that they needed to maintain a good rtionship with them while he was at the Academy.
''I don''t know when I''ll need their help.
Leaving in a sh, they took Allen and hispanions to the city, as if they were swept away by the wind.
And were off.
Yes, we are.
He turned his head.
"Brother, there seems to be a separate door for nobles over there!"
Now it was time to run full speed ahead once again.
* * *
Once they disyed their family crest, the inspection was easy to pass.
The city was named Elpis, the ancient word for hope, and its present atmosphere was lively like its namesake.
Whoa Technology sure has advanced, hasnt it?
"Wow."
"Sir, the a-armor is moving!
Inellia and Linbelle''s mouths dropped.
Julius also looked around with surprised eyes. "This is amazing Is that a train? Or the subway?"
The interior of the city was nothing short of an otherworldly metropolis. Metal structures ran through the setting of the huge city, and high-rise buildingswhich were rarely seen elsewherewere amon sight. To add to that, it was a melting pot of various objects procured from ruins of all kinds, making it apletely different world from the outside.
It''s safe to say that this may very well be the epicenter of human technological innovation.
From things hed heard only through rumors to others he could never have even imagined, all sorts of paraphernalia flowed together on the streets, forming a unique sense of harmony.
The streets were lined with things one wouldn''t see anywhere else except there in Elpis.
If I were to name aparable ce Maybe Perta, where all the Magic Towers are?
Though, theparison was meaningless. Perta had undergone a different development than their current location.
The city was divided into several zones, into inner and outer provinces.
The west side, where Allen and his party entered, was a residential area. The dense area was filled with a bustling vitality fueled by foreign mercenaries and adventurers.
Allen looked away from the information booklet and saw whaty within the inner gate.
There were countless students as well as ornate, white buildings, all surrounded by huge wallsthe original purpose behind the entire city''s construction. It was also the ce where the two of the Top Eight resided.
"Galshdin Academy."
Hed received his brochure after applying for the entrance examination.
Fortunately, they arrived four days before the entrance examination, so he was able to finish the application with some time to spare.
The application to take the entrance examination was a simple process. All he had to do was write down some basic information and pay a fee of five gold coins at the gate.
The goal of the Academy was to train new warriors and heroes so that they would aid them.
Anyone who thought they had talent and were under the age of thirty could apply. Five gold coins was the standard fee. It wasnt too unreasonable of a sum for a talentedmoner to save up.
"Linbelle, keep it safe so that you don''t lose it."
Which meant that anyone with a talent or passion could take a shot at the exam.
"Alright. By the way, are you sure Im allowed to be here?
Handing her a temporary certificate, Allen answered, "Yes. Your talent is too great to let go to waste, isnt it?"
"But even so, dont you need someone to wait on you?
Allen shook his head. "As a rule, outsiders are not allowed inside the Academy."
Even servants who served the noble students werent allowed to leave the dormitories.
"In other words, youd have to attend the Academy anyway in order for you to follow me there.
"Ah!"
It was one of the tricksmonly used by nobles.
It can''t be easy, suddenly living alone after living life being waited on hand and foot.
Many nobles, for example, nned to enroll both their children and talented knights, just in case. It was a fairlymon n for students of the Academy.
Allen also found this out through letters from Cathleen and Rachael.
That was what gave him the idea to have Linbelle matricte with him.
It doesnt really work out for Inellia because of her age, but youll be sixteen this year, so you cane.
His words encouraged a shift in Linbelles eyes, toward her mother.
Inellia asked, with a furious look in her eyes, "What''s wrong, Linbelle? Do you have something to say? What?"
"Nothing."
Though Linbelle dismissed the matter, Inellia clearly saw the brief smile at the corner of her mouth.
"Linbelle."
Allen immediately made a move to halt their regr bickering.
"Stop, Inellia, you have other things to do, so don''t focus on it. The same goes for you, Linbelle. The reason you''reing at all is because theres work for you to do at the Academy. Dont pick fights over this.
At his words, Inellia pouted and Linbelle nodded calmly.
"Yes"
"Alright."
Allen thought he could feel the beginnings of a headache arising at their disy. Their roles seemed to have changed after their excursion to the Heavenly Forest.
Karma. Hehe.
Ignoring Vess giggling voice, he turned to Julius.
"I''ll do my best to support you."
"As will I.
Byron perpetually looked like he was about to kneel at any moment. Anyas eyes glimmered with light. Laina was sitting behind him as always, as if she were Julius''s shadow. Julius spoke to all of them. Well, you all are my first subordinates. Im doing this for you all. You know that, don''t you?"
"Yep! Thank you!"
"Yes, sir!"
Julius smiled in delight. "The same goes for you, Laina.
"Thank you for this opportunity, sir."
Watching Laina politely bowing her head, Julius looked satisfied.
''First subordinates
How self-absorbed.
Allen remembered the knight with glum eyes as she looked at Julius leaving her behind, waiting in the manor.
"I wanted to bring Cami, too but then there would be too many people. I''ll bring her next semester."
"Wow! Is Cami going toe, too?"
"Yes."
His n was going steadily, and the fruit of hisbors was beginning to ripen.
"She''s my subordinate now, so I''ll take care of her."
And everyone else was unaware.
* * *
* * *
The four days passed in the blink of an eye.
Allen did not take a step out of the inn for those four days.
He didnt think it was possible that hed fail the entrance exam. However, he found it necessary to be preparedin other words, to garner every advantage he could.
Julius also seemed to agree with that mindset, but he focused on restoring his physical condition to the greatest extent possible instead.
Allen stopped thinking and looked around the streets of Elpis, where the light of dawn had begun to shine.
The darkness casting a shadow over the world was broken up by the light of the streetmps. As the darkness blocking his vision receded, the street at dawn appeared to take on the same appearance it had during the day.
The city was filled with excitement for the entrance exam, which was only offered twice a year.
It was one of the few days that outsiders could enter the Academy.
"Hey, who do you think will be the top qualifier from this years exam?
The descendant of one of the great warriors for sure. Who else could it be?
I heard that the first princess of the Great Forest ising this year Oh! And so is a triple legacy from the Draghias family.
"Some kid here has the warrior''s blood? Thats so crazy, isnt it?
"Then of course he''d be number one, right?
Academy students gossiped about who would be the top qualifier in the entrance examination, and the crowd gathering that morning seemed to be awaiting something soon toe.
Who couldve known?
Who couldve known that it would not be someone with an advantage like a triple legacy or a princess, but a third party applicant who would be the one to take the lead?
''I still havent seen anything about it in the ck book yet
That much he fully predicted through Julius''s monologue.
Even though the grading of the entrance exam was based on potential rather than ability, its value as an indicator of strength didnt fade.
After all, the potential for future growth was more important than ones present state.
''Still, too much attention is bad.''
Allen had no intention of fully concealing his skills. In fact, he had to reveal them to some degree in order to gain influence.
He was aiming to be runner-uppositioned highly enough to benefit, but still able to put someone else in the spotlight. The second-rank student received a good deal of attention, too, but the notoriety was small enough in scale to be worth having the title, helpful in preparing for future ns.
There was also an uncontroble variable named Julius, but that didn''t matter much.
Julius decides to hide his skills as much as he can.
If possible, he wants to pass with the lowest score possible.
He was aiming for something slightly different than his brother.
If he could matricte with a grade in the bottom 10%, he could enter the supplementary ss.
Julius needs to learn skills that the Academy was famous for teaching well, and he needs to befriend someone in that ss whod be importantter on in his journey.
Where is that kids pride?
There was a limit to the ability someone could gain through luck as opposed to skills. Yet, he was able to thrive under the protection of the System, something which Allen found funny. In the end, putting in effort must have be worthless to him.
Allen shook his head. There was no need to waste his mind on useless musings.
Fwoom.
The door to the Academy began to slowly open.
"Alright! Applicants numbers 1 through 500, please make your way to the first testing site!
"If you''re going to take the entrance exam, please step back past the examination line! Let me repeat. If you''re going to take the entrance exam
"If youve lost your temporary certificate, please obtain another from the admissions office within the next 30 minutes."
The numbers written on the certificates have been changed as of this morning, please check your number!
Allen checked the numbers on his certificate.
572.
His number was different from yesterday. It was clear that his previous number, 1483, had changed to another.
''Are they trying to prevent cheating?''
He was somewhat surprised by their thoroughness.
Linbelle checked her numbers and immediately approached Allen.
"Sir."
"What''s your number?"
"133.
"What a shame. When we finish the entrance exam, lets meet back here.
"Yes Alright."
Allen sent Inellia off to her daughter, with whom she was hesitant to part. He then turned around to see Julius waiting for him alone.
"What number are you?"
"I''m 928. What about you?"
"572. You''ll go to the same test site as me."
Julius spoke with a smile. "I hope we get good results."
Good results
What''s the point of aiming for the supplementary ss?
Allen replied with a smirk. "I really hope so."
"Yeah."
They headed to the second test site, where numbers 501 to 1,000 were to take their exam. There, thousands of crystal balls had been imnted in the ground. Hundreds of Academy students as well as city residents surrounded the field.
"This will judge your affinity for mana! One by one,e forward! First off, number 501!
Thus began the Academy''s entrance examination.
Chapter 65
Chapter 65
Cathleen looked at the girl in front of her.
"You haven''t heard from him yet?"
"No. He said he would contact me when he got to the city.
Her ivory hair and sky-blue eyes were rare, even in the Academy which overflowed with those of different races and backgrounds.
"Shall we head to the exam room?"
Their beauty was especially noticeable in the cafe, scarce of other individuals. Though she was confident in her appearance, Cathleen didnt feel as though she were more confident than Rachael.
Rachael had earned her attractiveness through months of effort.
"Sure
"He didnt seem all that excited about it when we were talking to him. Don''t you think so?"
"No, that''s a little
"There''s no way that he forgot, right?
"No, Allen wouldn''t
What was she supposed to do? Cathleen''s eyes trembled. She was grateful to Allen. Hed given her new opportunities and aspirations. The same went for Rachael. Cathleen was always grateful to her for helping her adjust to life at the Academy.
But even so
"Cathleen, are you sure Allen hasn''t arrived yet? Or maybe something came up and he just wasnt able to get in contact with us?
"No. Thats not really all that likely.
"Don''t tell me! He got tired of me after I sent so many letters!
"Please"
It was so awkward being stuck between the two of them like this.
Some people just cant make it work.
Cathleen nced at her, then sighed at the way she saw Rachaels eyes alight in panic.
And what for? All over Allen.
Its Allen. He can take care of himself.
Cathleen tried to reach out her hand to Rachael again, just as she always did. "Okay, try to calm down a little. Lets think through this again
As she tried to stop Rachael like that, she heard the voices of other students.
What can you even do, really?
"Hey, did you see that new freshman this year? Isnt he crazy?"
"Yeah, his magic? And hisbat?
Normally, she wouldn''t even care, but she could see Rachaels anxiety now taking root in that direction.
Hes fantastic with both. Im sure hed win even if he was fighting a second year.
You think hes really that strong? Whats his name?
"Hold on. I don''t remember, but maybe
Cathleen had an ominous feeling.
Please, please, please, it cant be.
She closed her eyes tightly as her thoughts raced.
"Al- something? Oh, no. It was Heisel. Yeah, I think it was Heisel.
She breathed a quick sigh of relief.
"Phew. Come on, now
"Hes in first ce right now, and then next is the grandkid or something of the First Warrior or whoever and the next one is Albert? Allen? Hmm yeah. Allen, I think.
Crash!
A sh of yellow light appeared.
What did you say just now?
"Y-yes, maam. I
The boys chattering away tensed up at Rachaels sudden appearance.
"Allen."
"What?"
The freshman you were talking about a moment ago. Allen. Allen Reinhart, correct?
I-I
She asked again with a cold expression, A boy with blue hair and an expressionless face and sharp eyes, correct?
Reaching into his memory, the boy nodded. "Yes, I-I think so?"
"Thank you."
As soon as Rachael heard his response, she beelined for the testing site.
"Ah! Rachael, where are you going?"
"Sorry! Ill catch youter!"
"Rachael, ah, hey
Then who''s going to clean up this mess?
Left in the aftermath of Rachael''s teleportation, Cathleen sighed, frowning as she looked at the mess of fallen desks and chairs.
Ok, lets calm down. Time to calm down. Cant be getting stress lines so young in life.
She still remembered thest thing Allen said to her on the day she met him alone in his room.
Cathleen, I need you to do something for me.
C-Cathleen, are you okay? We
Im just fine.
The reason why she worked so hard, developing the talent she didnt naturally have and improving her skills.
Be more beautiful than anyone else.
You look like youre having a hard time. Can we help you?
"Right, we''ll do all the hard work."
Cathleen thanked them with the pure smile that she practiced in the mirror every day.
To the point where anyone would find you attractive. Not only on the outside, but on the inside, too.
"Oh, thank you so much."
"Its nothing."
"We''re half to me, so its okay."
Her praise turned the boys'' faces red as they quickly began to clean up the interior of the cafe.
And
"Thanks to you both, it looks like everything was cleaned up nicely."
"By the way, do you
Oh! It''s already time for me to go. But, Im sorry, what were you saying?
"Oh, nothing! Goodbye!"
She turned around with a smile.
Insert yourself into his life.
"Yes! You, too."
She left.
If Allen hade, she was sure that he had, too.
Be one of his women.
* * *
Natasha squinted, looking at the 7th testing site.
The exam there was meant to test their mental strength. An exam that would assess their natural mental fortitude via hallucinations and, at the same time, appraise how developed they were.
Someone she knew was sitting in said examination hall.
"Number 928, Julius Reinhart. Compared to him, is that really all you can do? Are you even from the same family?"
"I''ll do my best!"
He was different than shed expected.
Julius replied to the examiner''s cry in a confident voice.
However, considering the confidence with which he shouted, he did not put on much of a show.
He broke into a cold sweat. He could barely defend himself from the attack testing his mind, and didnt even try to deal with the physical attacks.
Julius appeared so different from her memoryso much so that she doubted whether he was the one she knew.
She could only detect magic on the scale of a pea from him. The magical momentum he had used to take down the dark sorcerers was nowhere to be found.
This this is weird.
If hed only show them the lightning that purified the gods corrupted body, hed be able to decimate the entire testing center.
It was as if Julius was deliberately hiding his skills.
But why?
She had no idea.
Sir Allen, who was already in a simr testing site, managed to finish the task in second ce all on his own.
Considering what she knew of his personality, it wouldnt have been strange for Julius to try to mess with him somehow.
''But why is he acting like that here?''
Did he have any reason to hide his skills?
She also found Allen suspicious.
If he was the ideal brother she knew him to be, wouldnt he be running to support Julius as he was sluggishly falling behind?
But he seemed too busy concentrating on his own test, totally ignoring Juliuss situation.
''Maybe hes after something
His present appearance did not carry with it his normally rxed expression.
The pieces of the puzzle began toe together. Julius had a reason to hide his power. And that was something that Allen knew and was choosing not to interfere with.
''But what is the point of doing all this?
What was making him act so weak, despite his abundance of power?
Although shed formed the foundation of a theory to crack the mystery, there remained gaps in her knowledge.
But Natasha was convinced that there was something driving their actions.
The problem was, though, that she wasn''t the only one who noticed it.
"Hmm, hes changed a good deal since west saw him, no?
Helena, the third princess of the Kingdom of Liber and who had met Julius previously, stared at him, eyes filled with suspicion.
"What do you think?"
"I agree with you, princess."
In response to her question, Irene watched Julius intently.
"You let him call you just Helena? You''re too lenient with him.
"I''m sorry."
"His brother also doesn''t quite fit what Id been told of him.
She decided to monitor the family using a private investigator once she heard that Julius was heading to the Academy, and then she hade here.
"Anyway, something seems to have happened to him I''ll have to go help."
Helena did not avoid the eyes of the elf looking at her.
"I think there are already some strongpetitors, so the sooner the better."
She smiled and whispered to Irene, "Of course you''ll go, too, right?
"Yes, absolutely."
"Then let''s go. He must have passed the test, too, Helena responded with a satisfied smile.
Thus, three women began to approach him.
* * *
* * *
He managed to secure the second spot in the entrance examination, despite events proceeding so beyond his expectations.
It was because thepetition was much fiercer than hed expected. He was going up against strong opponents, from the descendant of the First Warrior to the applicant from the Draghias family.
He was not in a situation where he could hide his strength haphazardly.
As a result, he had no choice but to disclose more than hed originally nned.
I want to keep the dragon''s core a secret, at the very least.
Unlike his bodily strength, which would inevitably be revealed over the course of a fight, hed refuse to use any power from his dragons core for the time being.
His reserves of internal mana and byproduct of using itthe sensitivity of his sensory powerwere nearly infinite. But theoretically, how advantageous would it be to be able to use both mana generated within the body as well as mana from ones surroundings?
Although he couldn''t use it for long because his mind and body couldn''t withstand the overload, he guessed that the momentary output would put him around the highest caliberthat of a 6th tier wizard.
Though, considering his rtiveck of experience with it in battle, he wasnt sure exactly what would happen if he were to dip his toe into such activities.
''It doesnt seem like anybody has found out about the dragon''s core yet.
Though, someone may have noticed that the structure of his core was different from the ring typical of the circle system users.
He turned his head toward the gaze he felt piercing through him.
There, a young man with a dark, gloomy air about him was staring at Allen.
Elnix Draghias.
The youngest member of the Draghias family and one of thepetitors whopeted with him for the second seat. However, he had been relegated to fourth ce, after the descendant of the First Warrior.
His eyes were fixed on Allen.
Allen could guess at his reason.
It smells like dirty lizard around here.
The Dragon''s Bloodline.
He has the blood of a hybrid.
When he concentrated, Allen felt faintly drawn toward the young Draghias.
Maybe he was staring at Allen because he felt the same sensation.
Elnix Draghias, or, no Not only him, but everyone in the Draghias family mustve inherited the blood of dragons in their bodies, being the sessors of dragons.
He ignored the gaze and turned his head to the side to see snow-white hair and an expressionless face.
It was one of the main characters asionally mentioned in the ck Book, someone who imed to be a descendant of the First Warrior.
"Maria Caritas."
She bit the corner of her lips, as if displeased with her results.
Allen wanted to be friends with her to prepare for the future, just in case there was something she had to offer.
''But not now.''
The situation was hardly conducive to starting a conversation.
Allen turned to the man in front of her before she could notice his gaze.
He was the main character of Julius''s novel, the reincarnation of the first Demon King who fought against the First Warrior, and a man who would one day possess the power to single-handedly destroy the country.
He finallyid eyes on him.
Heisel Kailus.
The one who he suspected to be the cause of Julius''s unruly actions, and the owner of Allen''sst, hidden book.
With raven ck hair and dark ck eyes, he appeared to be annoyed, not at all amused by the situation at hand. The clean cut of his clothes stood out among the crowd.
Is there anything that makes him look like hes rted to the Demon King?
His face had some distinct features, but they werent particrly attractive rtive to other nobles.
Just because he had ck hair and ck eyes didn''t mean that was any proof
Was there ever an influential Kailus family?
He thought hed heard of such a thing somewhere before. However, a detailed investigation now seemed necessary.
Not even a breath after Allen first observed him
"Hmm?"
Heisel turned his head, looking directly into Allen''s eyes.
However, Allen showed no hint of embarrassment.
I even made an effort to hide my gaze
For Heisel to have caught his single nce, Allen realized that he might not have been able to take the top spot from him, even if hed put his all into it.
But Heisel grinned, as if he had noticed exactly what Allen was thinking.
"I''m a little sensitive to the eyes of other people.
"I apologize if it was unpleasant."
"No, rather than being unpleasant It''s a little fascinating."
The sessful applicants for the entrance examination flocked to the central square one after another. Those in charge of the exam lined them up, and now, all that was left before entering the Academy was thest rite of passage.
"I wonder how he''s doing."
"What do you mean?
"Oh, him, too. He fits into the puppet role well, doesn''t he?
Allen was forced to show his bewilderment for a moment.
At his reaction, Heisel spoke, voice filled with doubt. "You don''t know whats going on? Perhaps Have they changed their ways? I wouldnt have thought, though"
"They? What does that mean Wait!"
As soon as Allen began to hurriedly speak, the man in charge of the entrance exam called out Heisel''s name.
"Number 1102, Heisel Kailus! As required by Academy tradition and the rite of passage, you shall gauge your affinity with and potential to possess the Holy Sword. Step forward and touch the handle of the Holy Sword!"
"Well, it''s none of my business now."
Heisel slowly strode over the red-carpeted square.
"If you''re really curious,e find meter or not. It doesn''t matter," he said with a slight wave of his hand that appeared frivolous at first nce. But Allen was not in the right state of mind to pay attention to it.
Am I a puppet?
For whom?
Or rather whose puppet?
Was this just a trap to try to shake him up?
But why would he do that?
Or what did that word really mean?
Having thought hed secured a good position for himself just a few moments prior, Allen felt his train of thought derailing.
"Wow!"
"Insane, did you see the Holy Sword? How many years has it been? Wow"
"Isnt it the first time in 17 years? This freshman is really
But there was no time to think.
"Number 572, Allen Reinhart! Now it''s your turn! We''re running out of time, so we''ll try to move as quickly as we can!"
Allen looked upon the Holy Sword, the foundation and pir of the city, embedded into the rugged rock in the center of the red square.
I may never have a chance to see another of the Five Wonders like this again
But Allen was no longer able to concentrate on the entrance examination.
In the corner of his vision, he saw Heisel disappearing through the gates of the Academy, drawing attention from all.
''There''s no time for this.
There may not be another opportunity to approach the Holy Sword, but at that moment, it was more important to grasp the meaning of what hed said.
When Allen quickly rushed to grab the handle of the sword, the de shone with light.
"Oh my god, him, too?"
"Another freshman is doing it? Their cores must be insane.
Wont the First Warriors descendant make it react, too? So itll be three times, then?
In his coat, the beads, one of the Five Wonders he possessed, trembled slightly.
He exited the square.
He turned in the direction that Heisel had disappeared, ignoring the cheers, the reaction of one of the Five Great Wonders, and all those eyes.
"Ah."
At that moment, a yellow light shed, and a pair of sky-blue eyes blocked his path.
"Allen, what are you doing here?"
The light scent of Maybells intertwined with that of the spring breeze.
When were you going to tell me you were here? What are you doing here?
And through the breeze came that nostalgic voice.
"Rachael."
Chapter 66
Chapter 66
The Top Eight, the title given to the First Warriors eightpanions.
Members of the Top Eight must be strong and could never reject anyones challenge, lest they forsake their promise not to tarnish the honor of their name. Yet the im that the members of the Top Eight were the strongest of all was not necessarily correct.
It went without saying that those with simrly powerful skills existed, including others who were hostile or simply neutral toward humanity.
Among them was the Chancellor of Galshdin Academy, a woman whod been the chair of the academic board since the Academys founding. Her outward stance may have leaned toward showing humanity goodwill, yet she still insisted on maintaining neutrality.
Two of the Top Eight were known to be affiliated with the Academy. Unofficially, however, there were a total of three of the strongest yers on the world stageincluding the Chancellorwho positioned themselves with the Academy.
"Are you going to just let that happen?"
"It''s just a childish prank, is it something this old man should care about?"
Gaillon the Beast King, one of the members of the Top Eight whod kept his position there for quite a long time as a beastman, answered by chugging expensive liquor like water.
Even so, his white ears twitched, and his face showed clear annoyance.
"How rowdy Tsk."
Jaqnelle, who looked annoyed at his reply, said bluntly, "No, even now, he looks like hes up to no good
Looking in the direction he pointed his finger, he saw Julius inhaling red powder on arge screen. It was right after he took part in the entrance examination.
"Are you saying it''s normal to deliberately lower your skills?!"
Despite his shouting, Gaillon''s attitude remained unchanged. Instead, he simply covered his fluffy ears with his hands to dull the volume of his voice.
"Adults do not intervene in fights between children. So then, no matter what happens, it is imperative to act ordingly."
His indifferent words caused red heat to rise up Jaqnelle''s neck.
"And you call yourself one of the Top Eight! You don''t even know what''s going on, yet you''re going to sit on the sidelines and just watch!"
"Little boy."
"What was that?"
Gaillonughed at his angered expression.
You think mentioning the Top Eight will do anything for you?
Jaqnelle.
He was best known in the world by the name of the Shield of Heaven. As the youngest of the current Top Eight, hes held the title for thest three years. However, his reputation was not as significant in Gaillon''s eyes.
You sure have a smug face for someone who took over the position in such a corrupt way.
"What?"
Gaillon snorted and continued, "Theres a fair bit of talk about your underhanded way of bringing down an elder."
Jaqnelle no longer held back.
Crash!
"You crazy old man!
Hundreds No, thousands of orbs of light formed around Jaqnelle and flew around at a high speed.
Despite his threat, Gallion did not bat an eye.
"What, am I wrong?
Gaillon was referring to the grudge that still festered in the back of his mind.
"Is it still not over?!"
Despite Jaqnelles cry, Gaillon replied with a sour face, "I didn''t agree."
"So? All the others already have!"
In order to rise to the position of the Top Eight, it was necessary to gather notable achievements and for a majority of the Top Eight to agree. The simplest of these notable achievements was to beat one of the sitting members of the Top Eight.
Jaqnelle had the ability to contend with the Top Eight, but his true nature was to defend rather than attack. While fighting against one of the previous generations Top Eight, he realized that hecked the ability to finish him, and instead sealed his opponent in a space vortex.
As one day passed, his opponent ignored him.
After a week, he began to try an assortment of methods to escape.
A monthter, he tried to negotiate with Jaqnelle.
Three monthster, he went mad.
And finally, after five months of confinement, his opponent conceded defeat.
The cause of defeat was not a difference in power, but rather, the fatigue from months of istion.
"Whatever means I used, I got the consent of the majority, and I am a member of the Top Eight, like you! Please act ordingly!"
"You?" Finally making eye contact with Jaqnelle, Gaillon spoke that one word and revealed his long canines.
"Yes, so please act
Jaqnelle cut himself off and instinctively expanded his orbs of light.
Crash!
"Ohoho, so youre not all bark. Youve got a little bite in you?"
Before he even knew it, Gaillon had a huge sword gripped tightly in his hand. A wave of power rippled through the rugged sword. A glow, dark red like his temper, zed along the de.
Jaqnelle, his expression visibly ufortable, could not put up with it any longer.
"Ha, you started this. Don''t regret it."
Hede to the Academy full of excitement to meet him after earning his position in the Top Eight, but if hed known him to be such a crotchety old man, he wouldve put it off longer.
"Yes, Ill use this opportunity to teach you that there is a hierarchy within the Top Eight.
Gaillon burst out in joyousughter. He valued strength above all else, and so, he didnt approve of Jaqnelle, who won his qualifying battle in what he believed to be an unworthy manner.
As soon as they were about to collide, a soft voice rang out from the space in between them.
"Oh, stop it, would you?"
"Anastasia."
"Grandmother."
Matching Gaillons reaction, Jaqnelle sighed and collected himself, aware that a new force had now entered the room.
"Ah, alright. Ill listen, just this once."
As he stepped down, Gaillon also sheathed his sword with an irritated expression.
"Tsk, a man with no fighting spirit."
Just as Jaqnelle was about to answer angrily at his remark, another woman intervened.
"Stop, stop! You guys are here to do your duty. We can''t just sit on the sidelines and have our own little quarrels!"
"If it werent for him, I never wouldve had any intention of fighting in the first ce.
Gaillon gauged the ability of the woman standing in front of him.
''I''d like to try fighting her sometime
It would be difficult for him to fight here, a ce shed spent hundreds of years designing and constructing.
This city, it might as well have been her very own home.
To add to that, all the knowledge of the Academy had passed through her hands, information belonging to the descendants of a dragon. Gaillon didn''t know exactly how strong she was.
Is it worth the risk?
After thinking it through for a while, he raised his hands as if hede to a conclusion.
"Alright, alright. Lets let it go, shall we?"
He shouted in a clear sulky tone, but no one seemed to care.
"So, what were you arguing about this time?" The Chancellor of Galshdin Academy sighed at the sight of them causing conflictas always.
"Let me exin."
Despite Jaqnelle''s words, Gaillonyed down again and tilted his bottle, as if telling him to do whatever he wanted.
At the entrance exam, one no, several students, including that guy, took the tests while intentionally hiding their skills. We do not know their purpose in choosing to do so, so we need to investigate.
The matter became even stranger upon further thought.
"And apart from that, there are a good deal of problems with the Academy''s system. No, with your talents, you could have prevented these problems from the beginning
As he red at her with suspicious eyes, Anastasia smiled faintly. "No, we won''t do anything about it."
"You"
"Even if that is something happening, it''s an issue for the students to deal with on their own, not something for us to intervene in."
Jaqnelle gave her answer a moment of thought.
"Wait, then youve known about this?
"What we cultivate are warriors, not flowers in a garden."
He wasn''t so stupid that he didnt understand what she meant.
"In order to allow students the chance to develop their skills, to train them"
All while hed been running around trying to solve the problem He was left despondent.
"Those threatsthe lethal fights between students and attacks on the Academy itself are more than enough to be driving forces to instigate that growth."
"Is it the same for the spies on the inside?"
A proper trial, if ovee, bes manure that will fertilize the soil.
For that reason, regardless of its name as the top educational facility in the world, Galshdin Academy had regrly been home to a series of incidents several times each year.
"However, when ites to such dire situations
"There is still no reason for an adult to intervene in a child''s quarrel."
Anastasia nodded as if Gaillon was correct.
"I can''t believe it
Gaillon replied, taking a new drink from the shelf for himself. "Further proof that you are nothing but a child."
"If you had exined it to me from the beginning, I would never have made a fool of myself
"Was there any reason why I shouldve done that?"
Jaqnelle looked a little somber.
"So just let things y out. If it goes too far, you can put a stop to it, but even then, you don''t have to worry too much. Youve been made aware of the risks well in advance.
"Yes, thank you for letting me know."
Once their conversation was over, Anastasia smiled and said, "Oh, by the way, if there is a child you like among the new students here, you may take them on as a disciple.
"Hmph."
"Just give it some thought."
Gaillon snorted, as if to signify that he had no thoughts to share, as Jaqnelle''s eyes momentarily shed to one of the screens.
"Theres a lot of time left, so please take your time. Though your work will not end once you exit the city.
And with that, she removed herself from the room.
Gaillon nced at the screen and shook his head.
''A few of the guys looked decent enough, but
There was no one whod caught his eye yet.
He didnt know if he matched those specific qualities he was looking for.
* * *
* * *
"that''s Philosophers Hall, where you''ll be staying, and that''s Thrasos Hall on the other side."
The clear sky was cloudless, lit by the warm sunshine. The Academy was quiet, waiting for the new semester to begin the next week.
Thrasos is assigned to those who n to specialize in closebat, and Philosophers is assigned to more magic-oriented students like you.
The entrance examination had concluded yesterday.
Allen was following Rachael, who was guiding him through the Academy grounds.
"You can get to one of the academic research buildings or the library pretty quickly by using the back alley from Philosophers Hall."
To the east behind the dormitory was a researchplex for studying ancient relics, literature, and magic, and to the south was a hugemercial district.
"If you take the subway east of the Academy, you can easily get around to just about anywhere off campus."
To the north was an industrial area where various necessities and weapons were produced, and to the west was a residential area full of innswhere Allen had been staying before arriving here.
"Allen, why aren''t you talking?
"Wait, I was just thinking
"About what? You already ignored me, not calling and all that. Are you going to ignore what Im saying again now?"
"I apologize," Allen said with a puzzled face.
Rachael made ns with him for the very next day as soon as she met Allen the day prior.
''I got double booked
Today, he had scheduled to meet up with others, not just her. He also wanted to meet Heisel, but Allen was forcibly dragged away by Rachael''s fiery spirit.
"This time, ignoring me. Next time, you won''t even pretend to know me, will you? Hmph."
"No, I can guarantee that that will never happen."
"How can I believe that?"
Rachael turned and looked at Allen. Her determination to make him prove it somehow was visible in her eyes.
''I was going to reach out.
He was nning to meet up with her after the entrance examination.
He never thought that meeting her at the Academy meant contacting her the first second he arrived in an adjacent city. In short, this ordeal hade about as a result of the difference between her expectations and his actions.
Allen began with a serious look, "I''ll prove it to you somehow. Ill do whatever you need.
"Pfft.
Then, a small giggleughed out. Her eyes squinted, curled like a crescent moon.
"Haha. I''m just kidding. Kidding!"
Allen stiffened at her smile and looked back at her. "Are you kidding me?"
"Hehe, did you feel bad? I''m sorry if I made you feel bad, but you did freak me out a little bit
As she looked at Allen, her voice became smaller and smaller. Her head tilted downward.
"Allen, I wanted you to know how I feel
"I''m sorry."
"Allen? Allen?"
She slowly lifted her head at hisck of answer.
"Say something. If you''re going to get angry, then I
Right then.
"No, I''m kidding, too."
She saw Allen smiling awkwardly, as if he had never been angry.
"Allen."
She trembled, eyes wide-open and jaw dropped just slightly.
"Its no fun if I dont get to pull any pranks back
"Ah I cant believe you! She stomped away in a disy of apparent anger.
"Wait a minute!"
With Allens shout, she turned her head for a moment to see him holding out his hand proudly.
"If you''re sorry, thene back and hold my hand!"
"Do you need anything else?"
"A-anything else? A small flush rose up to his cheeks. As she took his hand, Rachael drew toward Allen. "Yes, well perhaps
Allen whispered in her ear.
She looked around with a startled look on her face. When she confirmed that no one else was there, she looked relieved.
"Ah So manly all of a sudden.
He spoke with a faint smile. "Well There was someone who said that when I came to the Academy, they would ask me to do something worse than this. Cant seem to remember who.
She blushed, face flushing a red best-suited to apples.
"Ah! Ah! Ah! Don''t say it! Don''t do that!
Allen grabbed her, trying to escape.
Mwah.
"Are you satisfied with this?"
After mumbling out several tries, deciding what she wanted to say, she whispered quietly in his arms, "Yes."
"That''s a relief."
"Actually, I think it''s a littlecking."
Allen''s face wore a carefree smile for the first time.
Behind them, a pair of eyes red silently in the shadow. In the ce from which the eyes had disappeared, there remained a subtle scent of trees.
"Allen, what are you doing? Aren''t you going to leave quickly?"
"No, nothing. Let''s go."
Allen quickly guided them back to traveling into the business district together.
Neither of them had much time to spend together today.
''To gather those with talent together.
That''s what Julius used to do.
Allen set his sights on one of the industrial zones.
It was time to harvest the seeds that had been sown.
Chapter 67
Chapter 67
Julius crossed the inner gate to enter the industrial zone.
What I have right now isnt cutting it.
He felt the need to acquire a decent weapon for himself. The sword he was currently using was passable, something hed gotten from a cksmith''s shop in the Capitol. However, considering what woulde in the future, that weapon wouldnt be enough.
In the original work, there were a good deal of altercations that arose during the main characters time at the Academy, so Julius found it necessary to prepare in advance.
Some light chatter filtered between the loud blows of hammering.
"Did you see the entrance exam this year? I don''t know where that kid from the Kailus family came from If I were that much of a talent, they''dve started throwin a festival by now.
"I liked Allen better than Heisel. I was kinda sad when he didnt win, to be honest."
"Ah, that The fight for second ce was a close one Maria stood out the most to meshe''s even more beautiful than the rumors say.
"The Draghiases must be disappointed. Even if he is the youngest of them all, he did worse than my brother, even.
The mercenaries spoke business in conversations passed back and forth. The enthusiasm for the entrance examination, which had ended yesterday, had yet to subside.
Around him, the tall streetmps blinked on and drove out the dusk, recing the scarlet sunset that disappeared over the horizon.
Julius''s expression grew nervous.
Ah, fuck
Hed used the potion to dampen his magic in order to aim for the supplementary ss, where hed encounter a great opportunity. If hed achieved good results on the exam and entered into the same ss as the main character, he wasnt sure how the course of events would changepared to the book.
However, he regretted that choice a little now.
What if there had been some kind of mistake, one that was distorting the novels sequence of events? What if the flow of time had changed from the original story?
It couldnt be.
The future as a whole hadntpletely changed or been erased just because of some small change to past eventsit couldnt be. Itd be much easier for fate to proceed ording to the events of the original novel.
I need to calm down.
If he were to run wild now, there was no telling what kind of change could ur.
He was surprised that Allen had taken second ce. However, Julius was sure that if he had done his best, the top position might have been his.
He just wasnt ready to take such a risk.
Julius quickened his pace to soothe his uneasiness. Today, he was on the hunt. He was looking to find those impoverished cksmiths hed read about in the original novelthe ones whose skills exceeded their age, but who werent properly thriving because of one reason.
The ones who became viins because of a single incorrect choice made in the moment.
The Sindri siblings.
It''s probably about time to consider whether or not to sell the old cksmith shop.
Because of the discrimination and resentment they experienced, the brotherster became members of the group who terrorized the Academy.
He had wanted to meet with them earlier in the morning, but had been dyed because of other guests visiting.
"Thank you foring! Have a good one!"
He needed to get them on his side, quickly. He could have recruited them a few months ago, but gave up because it would have taken too much time to reach them here.
Instead, he did something else.
They needed to be put through the wringer first.
If hed reached out to them too early on, they may not have chosen to rely on him.
Julius hoped that they would pledge blind fealty to him. Once you suffer, you learn how to prioritize. So before they met each other, Julius sent out his men.
The men were to spread a malicious rumor.
Ruining a life or two isnt that big of a deal, right?
Even less so if it made his job go a little faster.
After a few months, he learned that the Sindri siblings had experienced more disastrous failures than hed originally read.
And now, it was time to be rewarded for all his hard work.
Julius couldn''t stop smiling at the thought of them joining him.
And I have a backup n, just in case.
The sensation of the earrings in his ear was slightly ufortable. They were an item that made the wearer appear more amiable to others, conjuring up an emotional tie from those who beheld them.
For those who are entirely emotionally stable, the earrings sole effect is rather insignificant and is easily shaken off
But for those whod lived hard lives, it was much more difficult to forgo such warmth.
"Pleasee again! Wee to Valholl!
However, finding the cksmiths turned out to be hard.
Hed heard that they owned an old cksmiths shop along the intersection of the industrial and the research districts. He found it strange that he couldnt locate it for hours, though, no matter how hard he tried.
"What was the name of the cksmith''s shop? Val? Val"
"Wee to Valholl!"
"Yes, it was Valholl!"
Juliuss eyes went wide as he turned to the source of the voice.
"Our weapons are some of the finest youll find in Elpis!"
Hed passed it several times already because he didn''t think it could be the ce he was looking for.
The building stood a meager three stories high, inconceivably shortpared to the old buildings around it. In contrast to the gloomy sky above, there was a bustling crowd and glistening exterior that seemed to have been freshly renovated. A girl greeted people cheerfully at the entrance.
Julius went inside with an incredulous look on his face.
The interior was just as clean as the exterior.
Numerous weapons were neatly organized on the walls of the first floor, and weapons of even better quality than the first floor were arranged on the walls of the second.
"This is"
Looking closely at one side of one of the swords, he became sure.
This was a weapon that they had forged.
He could tell by the small, unique hammer pattern that had been carved under the handle.
Julius frowned.
"But why is this?
Why had things changedpared to the book?
If this had happened, then his n to get them on his side wouldnt go ordingly.
He approached the clerk nearest to him.
"Id like to meet the owner of this shop."
"What?"
"I said I want to meet the owner of this ce."
The clerk, who had looked suspicious until Julius first spoke, sighed as if he was used to the request.
"I''m sorry, sir, but the Sindri siblings are not currently epting requests for interviews."
Sindri. His heart began to gallop quicker and quicker in excitement upon hearing the name he was looking for.
"Do you know who I am? I am Julius Reinhart! I''d like to meet the owner here
"Security, please show this kind gentleman out.
Upon the clerks call, two mercenaries guarding the inside grabbed Julius''s arms.
"Do you know who I am? I''m from the Reinhard family
"Yes, yes, of course. And my name is Bill."
Their grip made his arm grow sore.
The clerk''s annoying expression made him want to gather up his mana, but it didnt budge. Shit.
Ah, fuck
Because the effects of the potion had yet to wear off.
"I''m a student at the Academy. I said I''m a student! Unhand me right now and lead me to Sindri!"
Sigh.
His face grew more and more red as he shouted. Bill shook his head in silence at the sight of him swinging about his arms and legs.
Julius didn''t stop bbering until hed been fully dragged out.
"Have a good one."
Thud!
He continued.
FUCK!!!
* * *
* * *
The sounds of the night rang even louder than the days. Even though their room was soundproofed, muffled noises from the floor below could be heard.
"It''s so noisy outside."
"Well, let me tell you real quick!!
"Nevermind. This has already happened several times. Cathleen shook her head nonchntly. There had only been a few incidents since the maintenance of the cksmith''s shop had beenpleted.
Who do they think they are? Must be some kid of a noble or wealthy family. Theyre so full of themselves, arent they?
Fwip.
A fully unfurled fan hid her mouth.
"Don''t you think so, Sir Allen?"
"Yes, I suppose they are.
Allenughed. Did they know who had been shouting outside?
Julius carefully approached Sindri, still wary. Hed still yet to learn to trust others again. The walls of the old cksmith''s shop were full of holes of various sizes
Allen nced at the ck book, depicting a time in the future now different from that of the present.
"He must be an uncultured, uncivilized person. Can''t you tell just from how he was acting?
"That''s right. He must be new money, right?"
"Y-yeah! I''m sure he''s just, like, a bad guy!!!"
The one behind that stuttering speech possessed arge voice that did not match their small body.
Looking at the window that had been blocked off so that no light coulde in, Allen said, "How''s the shop doing?"
"Yes, well, its been performing much better than I expected. When you first asked me to help them, I was quite suspicious of your intentions Cathleen folded her fan again. There was a subtle smile on her face, nowpletely revealed. "Now, I can''t help but believe you, sir."
Th-thank you s-so much for your help!!
Was it impossible for her to not stutter every time she spoke?
Allen looked at the woman sitting next to Cathleen. She had red, bobbed hair atop a tanplexion and an incredibly small stature that didnt evene to his chest. Her small hands were full of calluses, and her eyes shook as if trying to avoid his gaze.
"If it weren''t for you, we would certainly be d-dead."
She was half-dwarf, the illegitimate spawn of man and dwarfand discriminated against by both parties.
"It was me who made the suggestion, but it was Miss Cathleen who took action directly. Please thank her rather than me."
"Oh, thank you, maam!"
Half-dwarves were different from half-elves. Unlike the elves, who were generally rtively well regarded, those with the blood of the dwarves were seen as naive and narrow-minded.
"Of course, I have been i-indebted to Miss Cathleen for f-forgiving my debt, for which I have been indebted t-to her once again. B-but if it weren''t for you, sir, nothing wouldve changed at all!
Although they possessed an advantage in that they were deft-handed, dwarves were quick to form grudges against those who had transgressed them in even the slightest way. Thus, they gravitated toward making use of their excellent dexterity by crafting cursed weapons to resolve their grudges.
Spending their whole lives living in the dark and gloomy underground and rarely being exposed to the sun, dwarves as a race were not very well received.
To put it simply, they were viewed as even less reliable than the worst of humans.
"So y-you are our b-benefactor!!
Because of stereotypes like that, shea half-dwarfdid not feel as though she belonged to the humans nor to the dwarves.
Ah! Sindri covered her mouth with both hands and looked over at Allen, as if startled by her own shouting. "Is that okay? To say that?"
"It certainly is."
The current situation was a distinctly different one from the rumor-filled reputation they had picked up in their previous life. Also different now was the way that they had not be loyal to Julius, supplying him with countless weapons like ves.
In the ck book, the original Sindri siblings also happened to fall deep into paganism.
Did that mean that whatever they went through during those months was so impactful that they were willing to blindly follow whatever he said?
Making a move early on was the right choice.
When hed met with Cathleen alone, Allen told her what to do and asked for the sisters whereabouts, as he thought that he might be able to lure her, the one whod easily tripled the power of the heathen forces, over to his side.
"I-I''m sure my brother agrees with me!"
"Your younger brother I heard hes been badly injured. Is he okay now?"
"Yes, yes. W-we thought he would never walk again but he was able to survive th-thanks to your s-support.
She looked pale, perhaps a result of the reminiscing over that difficult time. Her little, strong arm flexed.
"That''s a relief."
It was his first time meeting her, but he couldn''t say it was his first time meeting with Cathleen, seeing as he had contacted her several times prior via letters.
And when the sky had turned utterly pitch-ck, what suddenly came upon them was silencea promised silence.
"So"
Cathleen prated through that silence.
"Can I know the real reason why you called us together?"
"Why? Is it toote in the day for a grown man and a woman to be together?"
She smiled softly at his remark and shook her head. "No, but sleep is a must for maintaining ones beauty. Isnt that something you asked me to take special care of? Her hand flipped her well-groomed blonde hair elegantly. "For ''him''."
There was no reason to put it off any longer. Allen nodded.
"Sh-should I leave?
Had she sensed something? Sindri half-raised herself up, perhaps thinking that she wouldnt want to wait even a moment if he asked her to take her leave.
"I''d appreciate it.
"Y-yes!"
"Though, I do have a favor to ask of you, so could you wait for me?"
"Wh-whatever you ask me to do, I''ll do it!!
Allen smiled, saying thank you. She left the room in a sh.
Thud!
Allen began without looking at Cathleen.
"Since the entrance ceremony has now ended, I''ll tell you what to do for next week."
Starting tomorrow, he would go to the Great Library to investigate soul-tracking magic. Linbelle and Inellia, too, were assigned to seek information on the same topic as well.
"It won''t be easy to win Juliuss heart. But you know that. Theres his personality, and
"There are so many women around him." She shrugged her shoulders.
"Yes, there are many people who are interested in him because of his appearancehe is pretty. How many of them are there already? Three? Four?"
"There will surely be a lot of obstacles. Besides, no matter how hard you try, its hard to get him to give a second nce if hes passed you over once. He seems to look for something else in people first.
That something was called talent.
Hes able to judge someones worth using some sort of strange ability.
"So you have to go at it from another angle."
"What angle?"
"If he wants people, then something to do with people. If he wants weapons, then something to do with weapons. If he wants opportunities, then something to do with opportunities. And even if what he wants is
He imagined the invisible sky beyond the curtain blocking his view.
The same moon rose, while the stars spun as always. The next day the sun would set, and the sun would rise again.
Over and over again.
"Love."
Allen''s lips contorted.
He sharpened a de in his mind.
"Go at it so that hell look back at you, even if you don''t meet whatever his standards are. Be an integral figure in his life.
If he wanted a good brother, hed be his brother.
If he wanted to y pretend as an ordinary family, hed go along with it.
But unlike before
"Give him your everything and gain his trust. Let me help you with that."
One day he''ll have to pay for it.
He absolutely would.
Chapter 68
Chapter 68
The Academy''s sses were infamous for their rigor.
High-quality lessons tailored to the talents of the individual.
A slogan that everyone knew.
It was rtivelymon for several ss years to share one ssroom as per the Academy''s ethos. This was because students were allowed to choose the sses that best suited them, ording to their prior understanding and knowledge on the topic. Should they prove their skills, underssmen would be allowed entrance into the same courses as their seniors.
"In essence, the acquisition of magic takes ce in three stages. The first is the discernment of the form of mana that you perceive. The second is the acquisition of knowledge pertaining to that magic system most simr to the characteristics of the mana for which one is able to develop an affinity."
Of course, first-years were excluded from this practice.
"Does anyone know what thest step is? Hmm Let me see, the blue-haired student sitting near the window there?
The professor locked eyes with Allen.
Allen stood, trying his best to hide his boredom.
Ves spoke to him. Whats wrong? Is this too hard for you?
Are you kidding? No way.
Then, what?
It''s just too easy.
"Could you tell us about the final step in the progression of learning magic?"
The sorcerer stores the knowledge about their system of magic in their mind, and then is able to use that mana by twisting their knowledge into reality ording to his or her own creativity and understanding.
He didn''t feel like properly dealing with the ss, which was way too simple for him.
"That''s right, that''s right! That''s why different sorcerers have different spells. Good! Next?
Allen sat down again.
Then why are you here? What about a more advanced ss? You said earlier that this isnt what you came here for.
In his heart, he thought it would be more useful to stay in the library and rummage through books than to take sses at this level.
But Allen couldn''t.
"Y-yes! My name is Louis
"Yes, you. Do you know why towers and schools for magic exist, even though magic varies from sorcerer to sorcerer?
"Hmm
He needed to assess the present level of each iing student.
Why is he covering this?
Every time Ves spoke to him, the round bracelet on his wrist vibrated slightly.
What they tested during the entrance exam was potential rather than skills.
In order to make sure they would and could take sses suitable for their level, it was necessary to check the skill level of the students on an individual basis.
This ss was part of that.
"Hmm You don''t know? If you don''t, you can say so. Students are here to learn. It''s nothing to be ashamed of."
"No, I don''t know."
Grades were determined via evaluations of individual students, and starting next month, they would be able to choose the courses theyd be taking in the future.
"Well, its actually quite simple. It''s because of magic books! And its important to note, also, that regardless of any sort of hierarchy associated with each tower, tradition dictates that the title of Master is given to anyone leading either establishment, and also, the very foundation of knowledge upon which to establish
After that, what he learned in his sses on basic magic theory overtook his life.
From the way that the range of his sensing power corrted to his mana stores, thepatibilities and natures of each of his current attributes, ssification ording to those attributes
After two long hours of ss, the bell rang.
"There will be a test next ss, so please make sure to review this material."
The aged professor in charge of basic magic theory calmly organized his books and left the ssroom.
"Oh, do we really have to do this for a month? Can''t I skip a ss?"
"Then you want to go to the supplementary ss with thosemoners? Just like that guy?"
"Oh, shut it."
As soon as the professor left, the students gathered together. The aristocracy with the aristocracy and themoners with themoners.
Here, too, there was a division of species. The elves congregated together, and the beastmen gathered together.
However, the humans were a little moreplicated. The nobles of each country divided themselves, and internal factions divided them even further.
''It''s like this on the first day, but how will it change tomorrow?
Wasnt the Academy aware of what a problem this could cause?
Allen took a look at them before losing interest. His current concern did not lie with them.
Sitting in the far corner, with a head of ck hair resting upon the desk Was he sleeping?
Hes got guts. If he gets caught, hell get a lot of points deducted.
Well, it''s not my business. Allen moved toward him.
Right then, someone called his name.
"Allen Reinhart."
When he turned his head, he saw a young man weighed down with a gloomy air. The dark circles under his eyes were striking against the paleness of his white face.
It was the youngest member of the Draghias family.
"Elnix Draghias."
"This is our first meeting since I saw you at the entrance exam. Let me introduce myself officially. I am of the Draghias family, Elnix Draghias. Please call me Elnix."
There was a tinge of courtesy in his voice.
Allen had no choice but to feel more suspicious because of this.
"Nice to meet you, sir. I am Allen Reinhart of the Reinhart family. That said, how may I help you?
Elnix smiled brightly to show his white teeth. "I should hope that well get along, Sir Allen."
Was that it? Allen couldn''t shake the memory of his gaze at the entrance exam, piercing through him.
His dragons core.
I dont really want to do this right now, but I really cant afford to be hostile right now either.
From the moment Elnix started talking to him, perhaps even from the moment he first started to move in Allens direction, the attention was on them.
As the youngest lord in the Draghias family, being the object of that level of interest was natural. Although Allen won the runner-up position in his entrance examination, he was no match for him. At least now, hed be closer to figures of authority important outside of the Academy.
"Thank you very much, but why did you call for me?"
"Could I invite you to lunch?"
He approached Allen rather aggressively. There was a person next to him who frowned, seeming to be dissatisfied with Elnixs behavior toward Allen. Perhaps a henchman or a follower.
"I''m sorry, but I have a previous engagement."
Allen refused at once. He had no intention ofing into contact with them before getting more information about them.
A previous engagement? Well, then
"No, I cant reschedule," came a yful, little voice.
When Allen turned his head, he found the speaker resting his chin on his wrist as if watching something funny, already awake.
"You were the top-ranked student, right
"Heisel."
"Oh, Sir Heisel. I''d like to invite you to dinner along with Sir Allen, would you like toe?"
Heisel nodded with a slick smile at the words, as if hed long ago decided his response. "No, I don''t want to."
"Thank you for What?
"I don''t want to eat with you."
One of his followers, who had been holding back angry words shouted loudly, "Do you know who you''re dealing with?! You really think you''re some tough shit just because you got the top spot right now!
"Ew, your little dog is freaking me out.
Hearing that, the expression on the young Draghiass face was wiped clean in an instant.
"Watch yournguage in the!!"
"Stop."
"presence of
"I told you to stop, Matthias."
"Yes."
At that, Matthias finally closed his mouth.
Elnix, having silenced his screaming fanboy, shared a peace-making proposal. "I don''t think today is the day. I hope we can grab a meal some other time."
The smile on his face was barely hanging by a thread.
Heisel''s answer was simple.
"I don''t want to."
His smile disappeared once more.
* * *
* * *
Thump.
"Was it really necessary to refuse him so harshly?
"Huh? Well I thought you knew. Its not time yet."
"What do you mean by that?"
Heisel grinned obligingly at Allen''s words. "I''m sorry, but I can''t tell you.
Allen let out a smallugh, but Heisel''s eyes said he was being serious.
"I don''t want to involve myself with those people any more than I already have.
"Were you not the one who asked me toe?"
"I didn''t think you''d reallye. Oh, and you can drop the formalities. I have, too.
Allen felt a little surge of adrenaline. He wanted to shout. He wanted to yell out what he knew. But he didn''t.
I can''t get a read on his strength right now.
Though he stood right in front of Allens eyes, not even the smallest wave of force exuded from Heisels body. That meant that Heisel was in full control of all his powers, and without even putting in any conscious effortnaturally, as if it were just a part of his resting state.
"Sure. Will do. So could you exin? Who those people are, and about what you just said?"
"Maybe your little friend knows
He gave a clear wink in Vess direction, but she hadnt spoken since first entering into Heisel''s vicinity.
As if she were just a normal sword.
Heisel shrugged at the inanimate sight and sawed off a chunk of his thick steak.
"I didn''t expect much, but it''s actually better than Id expected.
Allen yed along as Heisel tried to change the subject. "Doesnt it make sense? Given the sociopolitical status of most of the students here?
The Academys dining hall was grand enough to put most others to shame. The fact that thousands of people visited it for every meal yet the quality remained consistently high demonstrated the talent of the chefs.
He continued, "And also, considering that the Academys mission is to cultivate the next generation of warriors, I suppose offering such high-quality food is only natural."
"The next generation of warriors." Heisel looked faint for a moment, but immediately did away with his uneasy countenance.
Allen stared at him silently.
Maybe he underwent a reincarnation
What sort of emotion must one feelresurrecting after hundreds of years, your greatest enemy long gone, with only his sword remaining?
Joy? Sadness? Satisfaction? Emptiness?
When the world had changed.
When no one remembered the name of other heroes, and only the faded title of the First Warrior remained.
What must one feel in such a situation?
Allen didnt know. He didnt think he could ever understand.
All I know of the original story is what Ive heard through Julius''s monologues.
A one-sided retelling was not enough to allow him to properly grasp Heisels character.
All that Allen knew about him was the information he eventually learned from the ck book.
"Come to think of it, why did youe here? Ive just realized that you never told me. Heisel asked as if he had just remembered. Was it out of pure curiosity? Or for another reason?
He wouldn''t believe me if I said I came to build connections, like all the other nobles.
But it didn''t matter.
"Well I didn''t really think about it much. I guess one day I really just
There was no reason not to tell him.
"Its because of my brother.
"Your brother?"
"Yes, I''m here for my brother, Julius."
"Hmm"
Heisel mumbled softly, tapping his finger on the table a couple of times as if he were thinking hard about something, crafting his answer.
"Is he not ready to being to school yet? No, I don''t think that''s the case when I take a look at his body So what are you trying to do here?
After talking to himself for a while, he pondered his thoughts again several times before finally opening his mouth:
"Ha. I''ll tell you just this. Don''t believe what you see. And one more thing.
The moment Heisel tried to share
Flip, flip, flip.
The book linked to detects danger in ! reacts to !
The book linked to detects danger in ! reacts to !
The book linked to detects danger in ! reacts to !
The white book opened in a furious flurry of pages, repeatedly warning them with the same message.
The floor vibrated loudly with a roar.
Thud!
"What the fuck What''s going on!"
"Is this an e-earthquake?"
"Wh-what is this?"
The disturbance started to subside after a few minutes.
Realizing that the disruptive vibration wasn''t so severe of a threat, the seniors resumed eating. Only the freshmen continued to look around with puzzled expressions.
What just happened?
Did something that could trigger a reaction from the white book appear?
Just as Allen was about to rise from his seat, someone put their arm over his shoulder.
"Are you the top two freshmen?"
Chapter 69
Chapter 69
When Allen turned his head, he saw a man with round sses and green hair smiling underhandedly.
"Hey, you dont wanna say hi to your senior?"
Allen looked at him calmly.
Green hair, round sses, with thick hair covering his yellow eyes. He spoke with a standard ent. His smile was nefarious, and his breathing was steady.
Even by Allens standards, his skills were pretty good, too.
"Im Benjamin. 10th ce in the sophomore ss."
One of the names hed seen in the information that Inellia gathered up and sent to him. Also the name of the person with whom Juliuss first incident would begin.
"What, do you think I''m amoner or something? You can''t introduce yourself to amoner? Huh? Or does it go against etiquette to talk to people with blood lower than yours?
Other seniors sat on both sides of Heisel, pressuring him as well. He was debating whether or not to make a move.
Allen concentrated his own magic onto the bracelet around his wrist.
It was a relic that could transmit telepathicmunication within a one-meter radius.
I''ll take care of this.
Hmm?Heisel turned his head and looked back at Allen.
Allen sent another thought his way. I''ll deal with this on my own. You don''t have to step up.
Heisel was about to try refuting his words, but then nodded.
"Hey, are you ignoring me? You don''t get what Im saying? Ha!" Benjamin smiled, unaware, and flexed his arm. His rough words stood in stark contrast to the delicate movements of his mana.
Freeze.
A surprisingly pure force prevented him from standing up.
"You guys must be missing something. This isnt your territory. Get it now? The shit that used to work outside doesn''t work here."
When Allen looked around coolly, he saw that only a few sophomores and juniors remained sitting around them.
Allen understood the situation now.
"Frustrating, huh? You can do anything with your Daddys power outside, but not here."
Usually, upon suddenly facing verbal abuse and insult, the recipient did one of two things: get angry with an underlying sense of humiliation, or settle for a feeling of despondency.
If your opponent is stronger than you, you tend toward thetter.
"But here, at Galshdin Academy, your skills are everything
"Id ask that you please stop."
But that wasnt the case for Allen.
"What?"
"I understand your intentions, so you can stop."
"Huh, what the fuck Uh
The upperssman, Benjamin, flinched back. He turned his head to face his opponent as he ridiculed him, yet grew silent upon seeing Allens countenancea much more peaceful atmosphere than expected.
"Even without the extensive warning, I don''t intend to run wild, so you can cut the act."
"No, who do you think you are
"Is it not an attempt to subdue the current freshmen?"
That was the reason.
Theyre trying to show those who haven''t yet adapted to the social climate of the Academy.
That this ce was different.
That it wasnt some ce where they could run wild.
When Allen nced around him, he saw several freshmen looking at them with embarrassed expressions.
"We''ll y by the rules, so you don''t have to act like that."
Allen took advantage of the upperssmans shocked, rigid stance and removed Benjamins arm from his shoulder.
With this amount of mana he should be around Rank 4?''
Then again, he wasnt a sorcerer, so perhaps his skills were different.
"You all don''t actually want to create unnecessary conflict with us either, do you?"
"Uh, uh, no Well, that''s true"
As soon as he nodded, the ones surrounding Heisel sighed.
"No, dude. You cant just drop the shtick like that
"Ah, my bad I didn''t know they''d catch on so fast."
Benjamin scratched his cheek, looking embarrassed, as if entirely incapable of saying and acting as he just had.
His expression quickly turned meek, his eyes ncing down and away.
"I think they already get it, but make sure you cover all of it.
Regardless of his ss year, their opponent was still seated 10th in the sophomore ss. No matter how talented of a student one was, itd be hard to beat another talented student whod worked for a year longer.
Of course, Allen and Heisel werent just ordinary students, so it didn''t apply to them, if theyd decided to fight back.
That said
''Reputation is important.
Allen looked toward the future rather than the present.
The matchesing up in a few days are a part of that, too, right?
Those who participated would demonstrate the difference in skill and experience between freshmen and upperssmen.
At Allen''s confident words, the people waiting nearbytwo boys and one gipproached.
"Hey, it''s working. Just go ahead and drop it. Were doing this for the kids in the supplementary ss, too, right?
"Wow you''re smart, 2nd ce."
"Vice President, I think that at this point, it''d be better to just focus on fostering some harmony between the upperssmen and the new underssmen.
They were members of the Galshdin Academy student council.
''I did suspect theyd make their entrance at some point. Good thing I got it right.
From behind them emerged the figure Allen had been waiting for.
"I guess youre right."
His words revealed an indisputable dignity.
"Let''s use a more careful approach when dealing with the supplementary ss kids."
A beautiful, gray-haired man came up to them with a refreshing smile. Looking at Allen and Heisel, he began, "Nice to meet you. My name is Elijah Habueron, the second heir to the Aldenian empire.
Before his return, a man who had lost his brother, lost his father, lost everything he had.
"Im the current student body Vice President."
A man whose destruction came about by Juliuss hand.
"Im happy to make acquaintances with a talent such as yourself."
"Yes, it''s nice to meet you, too, Your Highness, Elijah."
Allen finally met him.
* * *
* * *
That afternoon, after attending all the regr sses, Allen walked into Philosophers Hall.
Once they had realized that the operation had failed, the group of upperssmen quickly apologized and left. As they were going, Benjamin said he was sorry and asked to meet privatelyter.
Allen was satisfied that he had sessfully met Elijah.
Heisel watched with interest while Allen was talking to him, saying not even a word, and then returned to the ssroom by him when their conversation came to an end.
As if he didnt want to be involved any more than at all necessary.
"Hey, did you hear? I heard there was a fight earlier."
"What? Where?"
"In the supplementary ss. I heard that this freshman fought with an upperssman and that theyre going topete no-holds-barred in three days. "
"Oh, I missed it. Damn.
Rumors circted among the groups of students leaving the main building. Since it wasmon for students from multiple grade levels to take the same ss, it was inevitable that the rumors would circte through each ss quickly.
As he approached the dormitory, Allen began, "So."
Allen lifted Ves up to look right at her.
"Do you know anything about what Heisel was talking about?"
W-well, I''m not really sure.
As promised, Ves had told him about the situation after returning from the Heavenly Forest.
"Didn''t you say that after dying during the war with the dragons, he opened his eyes and found himself with the sword?
Allen also told her that he was trying to save his brother, possessed by a demon.
"And when Heisel talks, there just seems to be something more
Ves trembled, as if to manifest her agitation.
"You really dont know anything?"
Ha, ha. Could it be that that man was wrong?
Allen stared at the sword without saying a word.
Ves sidestepped his question with silence. They remained like that as the moments passed.
By the time they could hear someone else''s footsteps approaching, Allen had already begun to take his own steps, too.
"Trust can only be reciprocated with trust. Ill see if he can keep silent after hearing my secrets.
I see.
His room was on the fourth floor of Philosophers Hallthe third from the far right.
His dormitory was divided into three rooms, a living room, and a kitchen.
It was narrower than that in the manor, but it was enough considering that he was essentially living alone.
When he entered the room, Inellia was waiting for him with tea prepared.
Allen began to speak as soon as he sat down. "How was it today?"
"We have confirmed a total of 11 auctions since dawn, but there were no items listed rted to soul tracking or space tracking.
"Is that so?"
He didn''t think it would be easy to find, but he was disappointed that they hadnt found even a trace yet.
"If you hear of any rumors, please report them to me immediately."
"Yes, sir. But as far as the items involved in the demon expulsion go
"If you can get it, get it.
She knew that his brother was possessed by a demon, so it wasnt a strange proposal for her to make.
"Oh, yeah, hows Linbelle doing?"
"She told me that what you asked her to do was going smoothly, but"
"What?"
"Shes a maid in name, but she has no time to fulfill her duties as such
Allen remembered her grumbling with a bitter smile. "Let''s talk about it again this weekend. I have something to do first."
"I see. Then I''ll continue searching again."
Be safe.
There''s nothing dangerous about the situation, considering her skills, but just in case.
Inellia smiled happily for a moment, turned into a shadow, and left the dormitory.
"Well then
Plop.
He opened his book.
He was disappointed that there were no clues to guide him in finding his brother. After Inellia disappeared, the book linked to
One page back, and then one more.
The rms that rang out when he talked to Heisel
The book linked to detects danger in ! reacts to !
They had still yet to disappear.
* * *
Heisel walked out the door and onto the street. It was crowded with folks of all kinds. Elves, humans, and those other predominant raceseven demi-humans, including the asional lizardman.
Going on daily walks around the city to people-watch was his hobby.
He felt a sense of otherness on these walks, like the world just wasnt the same as he remembered it. Nevertheless, he also felt something that warmed his heart, instead. Here, such a vibrant level of civilization had been attained once more.
So they call it the Great Fall.
Considering he was someone who knew some chapters of the true story behind the event, he thought it was a pretty good name for it.
He had died there. The greatest warriors of their generation had died there. The world had copsed.
If he hadn''t heard that the Holy Sword was located here, he would have looked far beyond the outer reaches of the sea just to find it.
"Don''t you think so, too?
His hidden opponent stiffened as Heisels voice pierced the air. A sound rumbled from over the wall marking a dead-end.
"I know you''re hiding, so hurry up ande out."
As he smiled his usual light smile, a person walked out from the alley from which hed entered.
One with blue hair, a confident expression, and a very different air about him than the person who Heisel had been with at lunch.
Julius appeared to be a little excited. "I definitely thought I was hiding myself well"
"It''s because I''m just a little sensitive to the gazes of others."
To the point where one could almost call him neurotic.
"Well, well Its nice to meet you
The main character, huh?
Heisel grinned. A little whisper came out through his throat. "The main character.
"Huh? What did you say?"
"So, what brought you out here?"
No matter the reason, no matter the sort of business, no matter how good the ideaHeisel was, the Demon King was, he was.
"I thought you''d be interested in my story.
"I don''t think it''d be particrly interesting."
He didnt want to involve himself in anything. Or with anyone. He wouldn''t have enough time to enjoy it.
"I know, but I think youll change your mind once you hear it. Julius nodded as if he already knew. I know you have the ability to find demons.
"So?"
It was no wonder he was so capable, since he was involved with those fuckers.
But, so what?
"I can feel the demon, but does that have anything to do with me?
Only once in Heisel''s life did he trigger a demon, a few months ago.
It was a nearly unconscious reflex, caused by the reaction from his proximity to the Holy Sword once it detected his presence.
"It doesnt. But I found it."
Keep your distance like Allen did.
"Whatever you find, it has nothing to do with me
"I found a gate connected to demons.
"What?"
But it didn''t take long for that thought to be derailed.
Julius took a second to quell his excitement before he calmly opened his mouth to speak. However, he still could not hide his joy that Heisel had given him a response.
"I found the gate where the demonse from."
When he said that, Heisel looked appalled.
Julius went over the story in his mind.
It''s only half a year left now until the gate reappears
If it could be stopped, then shouldnt it be stopped now?
If they left it alone, itd all just build up and be more of a hassle when the gate breaks.
That girl with cancer Has she gotten to the Magic Tower yet?''
It didnt matter, though. Even if she came, he wouldnt let that kind of futuree about.
This kind of ending is good enough.
This was the word he was nning to live in, so he would be in trouble if something so bad were to happen to it.
Heisel bowed his head. Julius approached him cautiously. He was sure that Heisel must be happy, too.
"I think this is going to take a while. Shall we continue inside?"
Heisel looked up. "Yes."
"Let''s go to my dorm."
Juliusughed.
"Alright. Lets hear it. What''s the story?"
Heiselughed, too, with his whole heart.
Chapter 70
Chapter 70
At the southern tip of the continent
Unlike in the east and west, where the various countries and races lived in harmony, and in the north, where the demi-humans queen resided, there were few traces of tolerance in the south.
Then there was the ins of Nastrond, blocking the path toward the north.
Therey a dense jungle full of monsters, a ce where superstitions of all sorts and paganism ruled. The only ones living there were rarer races such as the lizardmen, siren, harpies, and a few humans.
A group of people traipsed through the bushes into that ce where so few cities existed.
"Is this the right way? If its wrong again, I might start getting mad."
"Y-yes, I believe so, Master Skyna."
The sorcerer, iming to be a guide, trembled under the pressure apanying the threat of her displeasure.
"I should have just researched in peace, but I applied for this for no reason. Ah, if it werent for his sweet-talking Sigh.
She had been told that there was an opportunity to directly observe a demon transformation.
We havent even gotten a whiff of them.
It had been months since they followed it, the first sign of a trail of demons to be seen on the continent. People made a fuss, specting on the return of the Demon King.
"Theres a lingering scent of demons here."
But as the head of the Emergency Task Force assembled for this incident, she could not rid herself of the feeling of having been deceived by Barden.
"If you get it wrong again, I know you''ll break that damn magic thingie."
"Ill make sure to guide you to my utmost ability," Beritte answered resolutely, gripping onto the ancient relic in his hand.
No one sympathized with him.
Most of the party was already nervous about the months-longmitment, not to mention his personalityas condescending as the typical Tower of Light student.
I wonder when we can go back?
Francisca rubbed her tired eyes.
She hadnt been acting on impulse. She wanted to return to the Reinhart manor, and was waiting for the prophecy to be fulfilled. Then suddenly, her face contorted with disgust as she remembered the person who made her go there in the first ce.
Whisse Arona, the grandson of Grandel, Master of the Tower of Wind.
If only that hadn''te up then.
Hed done the same thing as he had in childhood, shamelessly approaching her again as if nothing had happened.
She felt like she was bound to do something reckless while in his presence, so she applied to join the emergency task force to investigate and escape him.
As a result, she suffered all sorts of hardships for months, with her hatred for him growing in kind.
''But still
Slip.
When she put her hand in her pocket, feeling the unmistakable texture of the wrinkled paper that shed read over and over again.
''Knowing hes the subject of the prophecy gave me some confidence.
As a result of studying chimera, she rose to be a Rank 5 sorcerer, and was taught by Skyna, the head of the mutation school.
As she tried to carry on with her thoughts, the man leading the group shouted, "I found something! Over here! There''s a lot of demons here Who?
When she snapped out of her meanderings and looked ahead, she saw a woman lying on the ckened, devastated terrain.
"Miss, are you all right?"
"There are civilians here?
"Wait a minute!"
The sorcerers began to approach her as if possessed. Skynas cries were of no use. Only Skyna and Francisca maintained their positions.
"What''s the matter, Master Skyna?"
"There''s no way there''s a civilian here!
"Hmm Hmm?"
The woman opened her eyes as soon as they approached, as if she had been waiting for them. Skyna was immediately wary of the sudden change in her consciousness.
The woman looked around with a sad face, appearing afraid.
"Where am I?"
"How are you feeling? Are you hurt?
Her pitiful demeanor and innocent face along with the rugged hem of her clothestorn as if she had been attacked by somethingmerged with the blindlypassionate atmosphere to stimte the sorcerers protective instincts.
"We''ve been sent from the magic towers to investigate
"Beritte! You little shit!" His shoulder hunched as Skyna approached him, visibly angered by his hasty action. "We don''t even know who she is, yet you revealed our identities? Have you gone insane?"
"B-but I''m really a civilian
"Shut up and step back. We need to do a thorough interrogation from hereon.
"Yes, o-okay."
Though hed just recently been trying to protect her, Beritte quickly came to his senses, looking at her sunken eyes. He was only a disciple of the Tower of Light, and his opponent was the head of the entire mutation school. They were by no means a fair match.
"So what''s your name? Where are you from? Do you have any memories at all?"
"I" Seemingly frightened by their small quarrel, the woman only just parted her lips to answer Skyna''s question. "My name is Lillith, well My name was Lillith.
It was Lillith?
The woman whod introduced herself as Lillith lowered her eyes hastily, feeling the weight of their gazes gather upon her.
?
Francisca felt strange looking at her.
"Yes Other than that, I don''t remember anything, I dont think."
The feeling was just slightly off.
"I''m sorry, I don''t know anything."
Francisca looked at her eyes. They were crinkled in a clear smile.
* * *
Yaaahhh!
Amidst the loud cheers, he saw two figures swinging their swords, generating wailing ngs of steel hitting steel on either side of the drill field.
More precisely, they were pushing each other back to either side of the field.
"Is that the best you can do, Benjamin?"
"You''re pretty good at pretending to be amoner, aren''t you?"
"I trusted the Vice President and came out here but it''s over."
Rumors had circted around the Academy and three dayster, the battle broke out as predicted.
Their venue was the drill field of the official training center located in the main building.
This future coincided with what was written in the ck book.
No restrictions. No interventions. A setting fostering a fierce battle that could truly result in life for the victor and death for the defeated.
Thus, most people thought a decently fierce battle was about to take ce.
Benjamin clenched his teeth and blocked the attack.
"Senior, why did you pick a fight, huh?
"Haha"
The opposite result came about.
Someones sword struck quickly in a blitz of light.
The sword swung from top to bottom in a diagonal arc, and again from the bottom to his top left side. He didn''t know that the movement of a swordwhich hed been practicing his whole lifecould feel so unfamiliar.
"Hes doing great going against an upperssman.
"Did hee out swinging too hard in the beginning?"
"But didn''t someone say he was in the supplementary ss? Just by looking at him shouldnt he be at the top of the ss?
He hadnt meant for this to happen. As an upperssman, Benjamin was trying to show off his skills and warn the freshmen who hadnt yet lost their undue pride from life outside.
"Senior, why did youe to the supplementary ss with such an air of condescension when this was the best you could do?"
He was just trying to let othermoner students at the Academy know that they could seed.
"Did you think you could just take on anyone in a supplementary ss? Or did you see this as an opportunity to symbolically defeat the aristocracy? Huh?"
No, its nothing like that, not at all.
"Tell me the truth. Then Ill let you go."
"No, I really
The crowd roared.
He shut his mouth, right before saying it.
It had been some scathing rebuke or another. Countless anonymous usations from behind the opaque curtain covering the gymnasium filled his eardrums.
"Even despite all this? You''re famous, sir. They wouldnt be here for no reason.
Benjamin wore a disheartened smile.
To those who didnt know his true intentions, Benjamin''s actions were no less than some run-of-the-mill, arrogantmoner who thought rankings were everything.
"Then hurry up, you fucking punk."
"So now you show your true colors. I guess that means that I''ll go all out
Smiling at Benjamin''s confession, Julius unleashed a blitz attack.
"Lets go."
Boom!
With a blue sh of lightning, blood-red mana burst up before him.
* * *
* * *
The battle was over. The victor was Julius, who had cleanly dominated the match.
As soon as the sparring match had concluded, Benjamin was moved to the medical office.
After this big of an event, he''ll really be in the dog house with the student council.
It was clear just by looking at the results that Allens wishes hade true.
No, it was meant to be this way, even if it wasnt what hed been hoping for.
Hadn''t the same thing happened in the past?
But
"Not like this, it shouldn''t have turned out like this."
Stare.
Turning his head toward the soft mor, he saw the second heir, Elijah, wearing a contorted expression.
"H-how could you do this?!"
"Vice President, I mean, Your Highness
Benjamin smiled bitterly.
"Didn''t you know this would happen one day? I didn''t want it to, but
"It was all for the Academy."
"I mixed my own personal interest into it."
Allen stared as Benjamin struggled to breathe.
"Even so, isn''t this too much?"
He didnt look good. He was covered in wounds, hisplexion pale, and in critical condition.
"Even if he can be saved, he may never recover even half the strength he once possessed
The medic who was examining him blurted out the prognosis.
Permanent damage.
Benjamin didn''t say anything in response, but knew that his life as a warrior was now almost over.
He may never be able to even wield a sword again.
"He didn''t mean for this to end so seriously, haha
Benjamin hid his trembling hands deep in the nket covering his shivering frame.
A dark, dull atmosphere hung above the infirmary.
Allen saw all this from a step away.
Could I have prevented this battle?
Or maybe he could''ve at least prevented his injury.
Then again, he and Benjamin werent well acquainted. And theyd only spoken for the first andst time three days ago. Thinking logically, the same result wouldvee about, regardless if Allen had warned him of his future.
And if it werent him, someone else would have had to go through the same experience.
Is that really true?
Hadnt he left Benjamin unattended just because these people bing Julius''s enemies was a more favorable situation for him?
Would it really have been so much harder to produce another oue?
His mind raced.
Though it was just Benjaminsomeone with whom he had no real acquaintancehe shouldnt have waited and ruined his life.
However, Benjamins sacrifice was indispensable in the mission to confront Julius.
Wasn''t it arrogant to think that he could deal with everything on his own, without any sacrifice at all?
They needed allies. They needed shared causes.
Guilt, avoidance, pity, and hypocrisythe wave of emotion flowing over him wasnt any of those.
This is something I prepared myself for.
The important thing was how to deal with it in the aftermath.
Before his return, Allen had experienced the limitations and consequences of fighting alone in the truest sense. He was just worried because he wasn''t sure how to act now that things were different.
That was how it happened
The time is now.''
An opportunity in the making for a long time.
Allen left the infirmary with a sense of resolution.
The light poured into the passage at a sharp angle.
Woo! Whoa!
Cheers surged from the other side of the dark passage.
"Are you all right, Julius? If youre hurt
"Great job! I was worried since you were going up against an upperssman, but Julius
"I really didn''t expect him to win. You truly are a scoundrel
Unlike the main character in the novel, Julius feltfortable, having created an exciting and exhrating spectacle.
Step, step.
have some cider. You had a pretty good beatdown, so I wont try to attack you any further. But I''m not going to treat you like a pushover either.
Julius was surrounded by several women who rushed to him shortly after hed made his way outside the training grounds.
"Oh, Brother! There you are! Where have you been?"
"I was watching from afar. You fought well."
Allen has just watched a man''s life crumble before his eyes, yet heughed and joked with the one who did it.
"Haha, you were watching?"
It was repulsive.
"Yes, congrattions on your victory."
"If I knew you were there, I would have fought harder. Hahaha."
Almost overwhelmingly so.
* * *
Allen walked aimlessly.
He didn''t mind going back to the dorm, but he wanted to organize his thoughts by going for a little walk today.
Allen suddenly spoke while walking through a deserted alley. "Do you think Im going about things wrong?"
Theres no way to know, right? It''s all in the past now.
"It''s already happened.
You cant predict the future. There''s really nothing you can do now in the present. Don''t look so sad, and think about what to do in the future. If you regret the past, then you can choose to act differently in the future.
For some reason, Ves was talkative.
That''s right. And ah, that sword! Now that your life at the Academy is stable, why don''t you fix my sword? When you give a gift, both the person giving it and receiving it feel good! Didnt you see the Sindri siblings earlier? They looked pretty talented, so how about you find me a sword that suits me, please. Youd enjoy that, too, right? Right?
"Thank you for your constion.
What? I didn''t mean to do that.
A small smile crept up Allen''s stiff face.
"Then let''s do that."
Look, I didn''t really mean it. I was really just doing all that for myself. Really.
His heavy footsteps felt a little lighter.
Yeah, not everything can be in my hands.
Hed already decided how to act.
"Then shall we go back? I''ll wipe you down with the best fish oil youve had in a long time. As a treat.
This is a treat to you?
Ves grumbled about nothing.
Just as he was about to turn around, a ball of brown fur popped out of the next alley.
Meow.
"There are street cats living in ces like this?
Had one of the students cast it aside while raising it?
Just as he resumed his steps, he stalled again, looking at the cat for a while longer.
?
"I didn''t expect to meet you here."
With white eyes, white hair, and a nkly expressionless sort of beautyone where the observer could never tell what she was thinkingthere was a woman who imed to be the descendant of one of the great warriors.
"Good morning."
Maria Caritas.
She walked slowly out of the alley.
"Hello.
Chapter 71
Chapter 71
Maria immediately bowed her head after greeting Allen.
Feigning an air of indifference, Allen looked at her with a quizzical eye.
What is she doing here?
Was she just going for a walk? Or did she have another purpose?
The same cat was still poking out of the alley.
It couldn''t be
Allen lowered his hand without a word.
Meow.
The cat clung to Allen''s approaching figure without warning. It was one of the small changes hed experienced after receiving a higher level of sensitivity from the god.
Maria''s eyes flicked to the cat clinging to Allen''s side, as if envious for a moment.
Seeing that, Allen began, "Do you want to pet it?"
"Mhm."
Since his first interaction with her, hed only heard her give short responses, from her remarks toward Elnixs followers to Heisel and Benjamin.
''I''m sure she''s been taught manners
Allen stopped thinking about her, though he could feel her from this short distance.
Her eyes stayed glued to the cat. But as soon as she got closer, it bared its fangs, its fur standing on end.
Hiiiissss.
"Ah."
Her hand paused, hovering in the air. Maria looked at Allen and back at the cat, alternating between the two with a sad face.
Allen calmed the cat down and thought to himself after seeing her pathetic figure, Does she like animals? But''
She was so fervently and objectively ipatible with them.
Some people were said to be born out of sync with animals, and she seemed to be one of those cases.
''I didn''t know about this.''
He sensed that it was a natural opportunity to make friends with her.
Allen lifted up the cat with both hands.
The cat buried its head in his arms, as if they had some form of genuine connection already. Allen briefly adjusted the position of his hand around the small creature.
"Here, now try. It should be fine now."
Did she not expect this at all from him? Her eyes widened slightly.
"I"
She paused, seeming troubled. Allen softly cautioned, "If you dont do it now, you might not have a chanceter
She gave a determined look, almost as if saying thank you.
Her hand slowly approached. It was an even slower motion than before, but her hand glided through the space between them without hesitation.
Meow.
The little guy, whod previously been hissing at her approach, rxed as Allen pet him.
Maria lowered her hand, drifting in the air, as if she were encouraged by the sight.
Pat.
Pat, pat.
She patted his head, many times over.
"Okay, now."
"Ah"
Fearing that the animal was experiencing too much stress, Allen let go of the cat, and she let out a sigh of regret.
The cat quickly kicked off the ground with its back legs, jumped over the wall, and disappeared.
As if their ordeal had been no cmity at all, he said, "Therell be another chance some other time, so you don''t have to be so disappointed."
"Another chance?"
"Yes, if thats what you want."
Allen shrugged his shoulders a bit, and she replied involuntarily.
"Then tomorrow?"
"What?"
"Help me tomorrow, too?
He couldnt believe things were going so well There was a resolute emotion set in her normally nk eyes.
Was there something like this in the ck book? Wait, no.''
Allen caught himself, suddenlying to the realization that he was relying solely on the ck book and its contents.
When hed first discovered the book''s ability, he was attentive to the information that gave it away. But now, havinge to his senses, he realized that he was on the verge of valuing the contents of the book more than his very own memories and experiences.
''I''ve been over-reliant on ittely.
He naturally relied on the book for information to help him deal with new ces and experiences hed yet to experience. His attitude of questioning and looking into what he saw had begun to get in his own way.
"Really?"
Couldnt the reason why he hadnt been getting results be because he wasnt trying hard enough to elicit them on his own?
Allen looked at Maria. Her expression was so vague that it was difficult to read. He redirected his thoughts entirely on his own judgment.
"Sure, I''ll help you as much as you want."
"Really?"
Bit by bit.
He had no choice but to attract Heisel with a checkable hand.
Maybe he hadnt done anything as of now, but before his return, Heisel had worked together with Julius as his colleague.
"Yes, I am also interested in you. Youre known as a descendant of the First Warrior."
So he had to be prepared.
There was no shortage of people with heritage tracing back to the First Warrior to keep Heisel, the Demon King, in check.
''Of course, it depends on what choices Heisel makes.
There was still time left.
There was also time to think about who gave him that all-knowing book.
There was time to get acquainted with her.
And there was time to watch Heisel, too.
"Maria."
"What?"
"Call me Maria."
So.
"Okay, Miss Maria."
"Drop the Miss.
"Okay, Maria."
"Mhm.
He didnt mind concentrating on his conversation with her for a while now.
Maria looked in the direction where the cat had disappeared and turned around. Allen''s bitter smile captured his lips only after hed said what he wanted and turned around.
"Then, how about same time tomorrow I''ll meet you in front of the main building."
"Mhm."
Allen stared back at her, recalling her demise in their previous life that hed heard about through rumors.
A pure, yet poor and pitiful woman who imed to be a descendant of the First Warrior.
"Ah."
She died five yearster.
"What''s wrong?"
"Name."
"Do you mean my name?"
"Mhm."
An untimely deathnecrosis of brain tissue caused by oxygen deprivation resultant from sustainedpression of the carotid arteries.
"Allen Reinhart. I am one of the Reinhart family of the Kingdom of Liber in the west."
"Maria Caritas."
"Nice to meet you."
"Nice to meet you."
In other words, it was suicide.
* * *
* * *
Elijah Habueron.
The second heir to the Aldenian Empire, the empire that unified the eastern half of the continent, while the western half housed an assortment of countless small, scattered countries and kingdoms.
But his role was a little more interesting than just that.
In fact, the heir presumptivecked legitimacy in their pedigree.
It was Elijah who was born unto the Empress, while his brother was a child born by mistake when the Emperor was still the Crown Prince.
If the Crown Princecked the ability to rule, or if his maternal rtives dared to be ambitious and cause a disturbance. If the customs of the empire did not advocate for meritocracy.
Elijah may have been able to aim for the Crown Princes seat.
Birthright turned out to be less of a stumbling block than hed thought.
Because the Emperor did not think it a stumbling block.
Even an illegitimate child could prove their ability, so they passed onto him the status of the Crown Prince. And nobody, not even the officials of the empire, opposed the decision to do so.
The founding emperor had set forth this custom in order to mitigate restrictions on his status, and also as an attempt to better the rtionship between the empresses.
So, he settled.
Elijah obeyed the Emperor''smand and didnt make trouble. He was on good terms with the Crown Prince, so he was allowed toe to the Academy, even though doing so would put him in danger since he was gaining power.
If nothing had happened, he would have returned to the empire and be Lord of some fairlyrge area ofnd somewhere, eating well and livingfortably.
If it wasn''t for Julius.
That was how Allen really came to hate Julius. How he came to meddle with Elijahs rtion with the throne.
At that time, he really tried to understand Julius as he was now.
He didn''t really try to take my brother''s body.
Maybe it was just a coincidence.
Maybe then it wouldnt be his fault?
If it weren''t for that incident, Allen would probably have given up on revenge entirely.
Maybe they couldpromise a little bit because they knew that revenge wasnt possible.
Like his father.
Like everyone except for him.
However, after realizing the full context of the incident, Allen felt a deep disgust as an aristocrat and as a person.
Five monthster around the start of the new semester, a new student would enter into the Academy.
Maya Habueron.
The emperors youngest daughter, and a woman of great talent.
Rumor had it that it was there that she met her fate.
People say she fell in love at first sight, but
Nobody could really know for certain.
Maybe Julius, who recognized her talent, set off to approach her first.
Knowing Julius''s abilities, Allen was able to guess at the meaning behind their meeting from a different perspective.
In any case, their unlikely encounter resulted in the worst case scenario, one nobody could have predicted back then.
A yearter, the Crown Prince suddenly died.
It was from an unidentified curse.
Another yearter, the third in line to be Emperor of the Aldenian Empire died during an expedition while searching for someone suitable to fill the Crown Princes vacant seat.
That had been a monster mob ambush.
Having been in the process of investigating the two deaths, Elijah immediately amassed an army and attacked Maya, but was ultimately defeated.
Committing suicide on the battle field.
No one knew why hed targeted her.
However, the circting rumors imed it was because he was beginning to feel anxious about her. After all, she was primed to be a new rival in bing the next Emperor. The rumor soon became widespread enough that it was epted as the truth throughout the continent.
The old emperor, who had lost three children in a short period of time, suffered a significant decline in his health in the ensuing months.
The other surviving members of the imperial family were all scared off by the siblings deaths and took one step back from the battle of session. And in that time, Maya overtook her other siblings to assume the position of the heir presumptive to the throne.
It was only through a certain coincidence that Allen came to learn the full context of the situation.
While searching for any form of weaknesses in his opponents, as always, he coincidentally had the opportunity to explore his inventory.
It was the sort of space that Allen generally wouldn''t have been able to breach, but there was a gap somewhere in the boundary through which he was able to infiltrate.
If I were to try again now, I doubt I could find such an easy in.
At that time, Allen was blinded by his impatience.
Thats where he found the diary.
/////// Diary
The diary contained the full picture of all the events that had all seemed like coincidences at first nce, from the death of the Crown Prince to Elijahs civil war.
Judging by the point of view showcased in the writing, the diarys author was clearly Elijah. And in it, he clearly pointed back to Julius as the one behind it all.
Hes fully overstepped his bounds.''
Allen was furious.
That bastard, Julius, had betrayed the duties of an aristocrat.
He was the one behind the assassination of the members of the imperial family as well as itsrgest internal rebellion, resulting in countless casualtiesall for his own gain.
Doing anything for his own gain without reservation.
Allen even realized the exact moment hed broken his ancestral oath.
The two of them, Allen and Julius, simply could not coexist.
In that very moment, the idea of trying to understand him died.
Finally, when he heard the news that Julius had shed tears in front of the Empress tofort her at the funeral of thete Emperor, Allen finally learned what that creatures true nature was.
He was a piece of shit.
A disgrace of a brother.
Trash, throwing away his aristocratic duties.
Thinking about it now, he could guess that his behavior had been pretty heavily influenced by the System or Quests
But it doesn''t matter. He still chose to do it.
He would have tried to do something about it if the journal hadn''t disappeared suddenly after finding it.
Even now, it was painful thinking about the whereabouts of the disappeared journal. Hed only taken his eyes off of it for a moment.
Because of that journal, Allen did not stop Benjamin and Julius from sparring.
No, he could not stop them.
Because of the incident, Elijah would form a hostile rtionship with Julius.
Without Benjamin''s sacrifice, Elijah wouldve easily forgiven Julius.
And Allen needed him.
His power. His name. His position. His help.
He needed the cooperation and power of the Crown Prince in order to deal with the forces that would eventually fight for Julius in the future.
Even if it crippled Benjamin.
Allen would make the same choice over and over again, even if he were to go back to the past again. Both for the future and for his brother.
So.
He had to take responsibility.
He wouldnt avoid it, and he wouldn''t turn a blind eye, either.
Instead, he would humbly ept the consequences of his actions.
Allen looked up. The hot desert wind drifted through the valley surrounding the entire city and transformed into a passing spring breeze.
From his window on the fourth floor, he could see the view of the square where the Holy Sword was embedded.
Although he was sad to not see a panoramic view of Elpis, he was satisfied.
"Sir, I have collected all the things that you requested of the alchemists."
The now familiar scent of lc had arrived. It marked the entry of a special being with a refreshing voice and countless powers unique to the fairy race.
"Youve done a great job, Inellia."
As Allen turned his head, Inellia bowed in a practiced gesture. "It was nothing. But sir, what are you going to use them for?
There were a variety of things gathered in her arms.
The red tail of a nightingale. Siren tears. The echoing voices of the condemned, and the young stamens of morning glories that had bloomed in the early morning.
Even the life stone Allen had gotten from the witch.
Dozens of objects poured out from her small pockets.
It was a magical sight.
Allen spoke in a rather calm tone, much unlike the first time hed witnessed her fairy-derived abilities that hed only read about in books. "Your abilities are amazing as always.
"But it doesn''t always seem like it.
Perhaps hearing the disappointment in her voice, Allen smiled and ced the ingredients she had gathered in his own inventory.
"I''ve seen it many times, yet it still never fails to surprise me."
As a sorcerer whod practiced the spatial system, it would be strange to not use the space granted to him by use of magic.
"I think Im ready now Let''s go meet them."
It took quite a while to inquire after the dozens of alchemists required to gather all the materials.
''If I had an alchemist working under me, it wouldve surely only taken half the time.
For security purposes, it was necessary to bring an alchemist onto his side.
Or maybe
Allen looked at Inellia for a moment.
Although she was a chimera, the blood of fairy royalty ran through her veins. She was resourceful, too.
Since ancient times, things crafted by fairies have worked pretty well.
Allen brushed past Inellia, nning to discuss this with herter.
After his proposal, Inellia asked carefully, "Who would you like to meet?"
"There''s only one person I have in mind."
Allen remembered what was waiting for him.
"Elijah, the second heir."
It was time to meet him.
Chapter 72
Chapter 72
They arrived at one of the gardens outside the Academy.
Flowers bloomed near quaint spots to enjoy teatime. Behind the splendory the hard, daily work of a gardener.
Elijah was there in the center of the garden. Despite the hot noon sun, the atmosphere around him was cold.
''He didn''t bring anyone else.
There were no other people in the garden.
Elijah was silent.
He didn''t turn his head once, even as he felt Allen enter the garden. Such ignorance continued until Allen came close, to which he quietly opened his eyes.
"Thank you for epting my invitation, Your Highness, Elijah."
"Does the host arriveter than the guest these days?"
Elijah''s eyes darkened. His temper seemed unstable.
"I was busy preparing something."
No wonder.
From his attitude alone, Elijah seemed close enough with Benjamin for him to return to the empire with Benjamin after graduating from the Academy.
"The customs of the Kingdom of Liber seem to allow it.
"It would have to depend on the gravity of the situation.
"If theres so much to prepare, shouldn''t it be done in advance?"
"It simply means that the preparation was important."
"Ha, good one. Yeah."
Elijah smiled triumphantly as Allen lightly brushed off his sarcasm.
Hes emotional, huh.
However, even considering the situation surrounding Benjamin, he seemed a little more emotionally fragile than expected. Sensing the strange atmosphere, Allen began cautiously. "So, did I do anything to put you in low spirits?"
Elijahs answer to Allen''s question was as strong as his tea. "Isn''t it toote for that?"
"I came on time."
"Shouldn''t you havee at least half an hour ago? Doesnt this show how little you value this meeting?
"I thought the meeting was important, so I wanted to make it as perfect as I could."
Allen realized that the second heirs anger over not knowing his reason for beingte was due to cultural differences.
In the Kingdom of Liber, the more important the meeting, the more crucial it was to be punctual. Doing so sincerely demonstrated that the meeting preparations were carried out to the utmost extent. The Aldenian Empire, on the other hand, was different. Only those who failed to prepare arrived on time. They demonstrated their respect by arriving as early as possible. The more important the meeting was, the more thoroughly prepared they must be, and far in advance. Thus, the earlier one arrived, the more sincerity one showed.
From Elijah''s point of view, he very well could have mistaken Allens timeliness for ack of respect to his person and ack of importance ced on the meeting.
Allen took a step back first.
"I sincerely apologize. It''s my fault that I didn''t notice the difference in customs between my homnd and yours. If you feel disrespected, I would entirely understand if you were to leave your seat. However
Elijah also realized that they had different perspectives of the situation.
"Even if it was an inconvenience, I''d appreciate it if you could listen to me for a moment."
Elijah tapped his leg unconsciously, lost in thought, then spoke after a few minutes of silence.
"Yeah, I''ll lend you an ear. Allen Reinhart, why did you want to see me?" His tone of voice was much kinder.
"I have something to tell you about Benjamin."
"What?"
His eyebrows twitched around with a flurry of seemingly unspoken thoughts, but when Elijah remembered what he had just been told, he closed his mouth.
"I understand that Benjamin was terribly injured by my brother."
"Yes."
"It is often difficult to find a method that could fully heal such an injury."
"And?"
Whether in the form of money or assets, there could be no shortage of financial capital for him as a member of the imperial family. Even if his personal financial power was not enough, he could ask the empire for help, so one day, Benjamin would be sure to recover.
Even so
"Wont it grow more difficult for him to fully recover from the injury as time goes by?"
Allen involuntarily dipped his chin low.
His body could certainly regenerate and recuperate. The problem was his mana cirction.
"Now that a full week has passed we''ll have to do something in the next four days to fully restore his mana cirction
Elijah clenched his fists at his peaceful tone. "Have you found a way to force it to recover?"
Allen''s eyes stared straight through him.
Elijah''s face hardened.
"What are you trying to say? Do you mean youve found a way to cure him now?"
His tone was calm, but Allen could feel that he was holding back his seething anger.
"Did you make mee to this ce to make fun of me? Do you know your ce?"
Elijah twisted his lips in a sneer.
"I shouldn''t havee here. If Id known you would do this, I wouldn''t havee.
The second heir made to get up. "I will not forget this
Allen watched him vent his anger and dered in an unwavering tone, "There is a way."
Elijahs eyes opened wide, like he understood the meaning of the words a beatter.
"What?"
His emotions were confusing him. It took time for him to develop a rapport with someone. However, with a spark from more negative thoughts, doing so took far less work.
Thus, this altogether fanned the mes of his anger.
"Shouldn''t you take responsibility for the crime of your ugly little brother?"
Allen smiled leisurely, and took something out from his inventory.
"A certain low-grade elixir would be enough.
Allen smiled.
It was a pure, well-intentioned smile.
* * *
* * *
Elijah could not get to work immediately because Allen held him up for some time.
"An elixir that hasn''t been released yet?"
"Yes, its scheduled to be approved by the School of Alchemy and released for general use in a few months."
The formtion of a low-grade elixir.
Allen had found the recipe for it himself while excavating some ruins before his regression. Thus, he knew where the information for its preparation had been buried, and he knew its intended effect quite well.
It''s a waste to release the recipe, but
He could use its early release to make up for hisck of action earlier.
Plus, Allen had received a huge sum for providing the form of the lower elixir to the School of Alchemy, and he would also be receiving a royalty every month following its release.
From now on, hed find himself in no shortage of money while buying things at the auction house.
Dealing with all of that had dyed his meeting with Elijah for a week.
It was hard to imagine that Elijah would receive a batch of suspicious items without requiring further verification.
"If you doubt the source of the elixir, you can investigate it for yourself."
"No, there''s no reason for you toe this far just to lie."
Elijah was surprised to have been given a low-grade elixir yet to be released to the public.
Had I wanted to, I should have been able to keep it a secret.
He knew the value of a product hed had to himself. The more one understood a products worth, the harder one tried to hide it. Nevertheless, he had relinquished full control over this elixir with the mindset that he was responsible for what his brother had done
"Is there anything you want in return?"
"I only hope this will give you peace."
"It is not me who is hurt."
"Of course, I''m going to meet with Benjamin separately."
Elijah shut up, realizing that Allen was dodging questions.
If ever there was a time to ept his help, it was now, even if his previous actions were questionable.
"I don''t know what you really want.
At first, he had thought of him as just a drop of talent in a sea of many. There were countless people like him in the empire, after all. Elijah just observed the older Reinharts behavior and thought he was perhaps a bit more experienced than his peers.
But to do all of this Elijah thought.
What thought process would drive someone to do this? He was deathly curious. If he hadn''t had to deliver the elixir to Benjamin, he would have stayed to converse a little while longer.
Could it be that he was trying to covet the power of the empire? Or to rise in the ranks of the Academy? He wasnt sure if it was just an attempt to win him over, or
Elijah gave up on trying to work through his tangled web of thoughts.
There was no time for this. Benjamin was still ridden with pain.
"If this elixir really seeds in making Benjamin fully recover Elijah thanked Allen with serious eyes. "I shall see to it that you are rewarded. I promise."
Allen shook his hand with a humble smile.
"Shouldn''t I take responsibility for what my brother did? And" Allen mumbled for a moment with a nondescript expression before soon shaking his head. "No, nevermind. Its nothing."
"Is that so?" Elijah stared at Allen as if recalling something and replied, "I''ll remember this."
Allen nodded with a slightly tired look.
"Thank you."
"Well, I''ll get going."
As soon as Allen answered, Elijah took the item he had received from him and left.
He would have to determine the authenticity of the elixir through his own personal connections, and figure out how to evade the eye of the School of Alchemy in the meantime. Hence, he would be busy for a few days.
''This is the end of my preparations.
Considering the second heirs character, Elijah would not let Allen''s troubles simply pass him by.
Combined with his kindness, his hesitation from their previous interaction, and his generally gentle nature, this act should positively impact their rtionship to quite the extent.
Allen looked up at Elijahs back, now quite distant.
The blindingly bright sunlight pierced his eyes.
I made a connection to one of the magic towers through this elixir
Grandel had broken his brother''s circle and also had a debt to repay.
Master of one of the seven towersthe Tower of Wind.
One of the living monsters of the supposed rank 8.
Aside from that, the dark sorcerers, the forces helping Julius, the dark magic targeted at the city during the Thanksgiving festival, whoever granted me the power of the book, Heisel the former Demon Lord, and a hidden family secret
Why did the world help Julius and himself so much?
What is the System, and who is Kim Woojin?
There were a myriad of things to do, and there were even more things he couldnt even begin to exin.
He didnt have time to rx like this.
He raised his head again.
The sky was fortunately clear, not a single spot in sight, unlike the troubles that gued him.
* * *
It had been a week since Allen met with Elijah and two weeks since Julius and Benjamin''s initial confrontation.
After only a few days had passed, most people had already begun to forget about the fights oue. So much had happened in that time that the period between those events now felt short.
More interesting events than those had already urred and subsequently attracted the students'' attention.
"Heisel, did you see that you broke the school record?"
"Really, it was only the intermediate one, but it''s crazy that a freshman broke it
"You mean he broke Pierre''s record, and now hes the strongest of the empire, wow."
The first of these notable events was when Heisel broke a school record.
In the basement of the Academy, there were ruins simtions, where students could practice in environments like a mockrge desert overflowing with relics.
These ruins simtions were divided into five grades: lowest, low, intermediate, high, and highest.
In addition, the artificial ruins consisted of real traps and monsters, and measured the time it took to sessfullyplete the run-through.
The technology was so refined that students began to be able topete within it.
The highest marks achieved in the lower-ranking simtions were frequently beaten. Normally, such a thing wouldnt have been much to gossip about. But that didnt apply when Heisel broke the record for the intermediate ruins.
After all, the previous owner of this record was Pierre Bernaugh, who was now one of the Top Eight.
As a result of this, people had begun to view Heisel as a sure-fire candidate for bing a member of the Top Eight in the future.
The second notable event was the birth of a god.
This wasn''t originally as exciting of a topicpared to the first.
However, that changed when it was revealed that the owner of the newborn god was Julius. Hed be famous for defeating his senior only a few days prior. Along with that, the hatched being from the egg was an extremely rare god.
Students from other grades frequently came to see the new god, thus giving his name an opportunity to spread further.
Due to these incidents, the fact that an upperssman in critical condition had been discharged was not even close to bing a topic of popr conversation.
But perhaps it was only natural, given that the upperssmans reputation wasn''t all that good.
"Thank you. Thank you very much.
But Benjamin was satisfied.
"Thanks to you, I was able to recover. Really I really don''t know what to say."
He might have been crippled for the rest of his life.
No matter how much he was willing to put in for the Academy, he wouldnt have been able toe to terms with that result.
And
Nor would his parents, who had worked so hard to send him here from their small town in the south.
So Benjamin was so grateful to Allen for preventing that terrible future froming about.
"Since it was my brother''s fault, I had a duty to resolve it. I''ve only done what should be expected."
Benjamin came to see Allen with Elijah.
Elijah had left shortly after his arrival, busily splitting up his time across his various engagements. So only Benjamin and Allen remained.
"Of course.
Benjamin rubbed the bridge of his nose, watching Allen speaking so calmly yet again.
"That is absolutely not expected of you, not even a bit. I heard it all from His Highness. You said that what I was given was an unreleased elixir? And you gave me such a precious gift regardless? What could you ever mean by of course?
"No, that''s
As he tried to make excuses, Allen found himself at a loss for words.
He had used him to get closer to Elijah.
But he couldnt admit that.
Therefore, Allen could only give a cliche answer.
"After all, it''s my duty passed down to me by my family."
"You"
Perhaps Benjamin assumed Allen was trembling with humility and not guilt. The upperssman spoke with serious eyes and bowed slightly.
"Honestly, I don''t know how helpful I will be to such a noble man like you. But"
He gripped Allen''s hand firmly and continued, his resolve growing with every word as if swearing to himself, with the deration, "If there is anything I can do to help, I will absolutely lend you my aid. Anything at all."
All Allen could do was kick him out quickly with a troubled look.
"Call me anytime! Okay? Call me!"
"Yes, understood. So go ahead and get going."
"Hahaha, yes!"
No matter how thick Allen''s skin was, it was hard to maintain an iron-hard expression in that situation.
After sending him off, Allen left the dormitory, watching the horizon that had already eaten half the sun.
It had be a habit for thest few weeks to go around this time.
Maria Caritas.
The time to meet with her was approaching.
Chapter 73
Chapter 73
The streets at dusk carried a lively atmosphere that couldnt be found there during the day. Students mourned their breakups and shook off their lingering sadness as best they could, while sorcerers with robes half unfastened walked along afterpleting a day of research. Behind them, their assistants dragged their feet, expressions hollow.
Allen walked against the backdrop of this now-familiar scenery. His shadow stretched low over the neat, gray tile of the pavement. Through the crowd of shadows he passed, blending in almost as if he were hiding himself.
He heard countless tales on his way to Maria.
"Oh my god, I''m taking intro to spirit studies, and theres this one crazy elf there"
"You see it too, yeah? Our aquatic magic professor''s face looks just like a frog
"A freshman in the supplementary ss beat an upperssman in the intermediate ss?
Which professor was annoying, who looked like a frog. Who fought who, and which one won.
"Come to think of it, did you know that someone beat the intermediate ruins simtion record?
"Oh, really? Who?"
"Hehe, you know, the famous one."
"Oh I guess he mustve tried crazy hard to break it, yeah?
From the menial gossip of the day to moremonce knowledge, various stories circted along with the wind.
Then, he heard a familiar name.
lius.
As he focused his ears, one voice stuck out clearly through all the other noise.
"Did you say Julius? Wasnt he way too harsh on him?
A graceful, courteous toneit must have been one of the aristocratic students.
"That''s right. As an aristocrat, it''s only proper to ept the challenge. But you have to adjust your actions to suit the nature of the duel."
"He really overdid it. It seems that his opponent recovered safely but wow. He must really have no dignity
Smirk.
Allen allowed himself to lose focus and hastened his slow steps.
There''s no way no one wouldin.
You cant ever please everyone.
The rivalry with Benjamin made Julius''s name well known, but his reputation was divided along two extremes.
''It would be impossible to spread rumors like I did back in our own territories.
He couldnt get away with that here.
Allen put aside his reservations about that situation and remembered Maria, whom hed been meeting on a regr basis now for weeks.
A woman with a typically blunt stoicism, interrupted by the asional slight expression.
She was known as the descendant of the First Warrior, but confirming whether she was actually of his bloodline was impossible.
However, considering that the Holy Sword responded to her, it was likely to be true.
If the Holy Sword reacted to Allen because of external reasons, it likely reacted to her because of the traces of the First Warriors divine power.
Allen wasn''t sure if it was rted to her blood or something else gic, either.
After all, in his past life, she was not the master of the Holy Sword.
"The master of the Holy Sword, one of the Five Wonders of the First Warrior,
That title belonged to the man who was a former demon and the main character of the original novel: Heisel.
* * *
He passed through a narrow path, until the shadow of the wall fell overhead. As the noise drifted away, he felt like hed entered another world.
Allen cut through the alley, drenched in an orange-stained sunlight.
As he walked slowly, thinking about this and that, a stiff voice greeted him. Itcked any of the hardships well-known by the deste surroundings.
"Hello."
When he turned his head, she was there, in the alley where they had first met sitting in the corner, staring at the cat.
It was pitiful to see her body squished together as tightly as possible in an attempt to rx her partner.
Allen watched her and uttered, "Is there a reason why you like cats so much?"
The cat, wary of her, rushed straight into Allen''s arms as he approached. He felt its weight in his arm.
Meow.
"No, there isn''t."
Her response was a little slow.
Is it personal?
Theyd already met in that alley more than ten times, yet despite this, he never felt as though the distance between them shrank at all.
She still hasnt told me anything about herself.
Allen had no idea what her actions meant.
She deliberately tried to keep her distance. That was the conclusion he came to after meeting with her for weeks. Whether such actions were conscious or unconscious, he realized that it would be almost impossible to get any closer to her without some sort of impetus.
"Well then."
As usual, she approached carefully after rising from her squashed position, while Allen kept the cat in his arms.
Pat. Pat.
"Now he''s pretty used to it."
"Mhm."
"It''s already been a month since we first met."
The cat now turned around as if it were bothered, but did not react violently. They had progressed leaps and boundspared to their starting point.
Marias lips turned up slightly, seeming pleased by the reaction, but the little smile disappeared right away.
"It''s hot even though it''s early in the evening now. Well, we are in the middle of the desert, so I guess its only natural With a slightly calm and heated tone, he admitted, "I''m not used to it.
She tilted her head to look at Allen.
"Ournd is on the western side of the Kingdom of Liber. The western end of the western continent. Im right by the blue Michent Mountains all year round, and near the Great Elf Forest, too.
Maria''s pure white eyes filled with a hint of interest.
"In the autumn, the ins all turn yellow, and the rainbow of autumn leaves color the mountain behind them. Do you know what a Thanksgiving festival is like?"
Popr songs sung by farmers cheerfully filled the city with a shared beat, and the iing merchants bargained with each other for spots to market themselves.
"But what about winter? I dont have the first clue what its like to enjoy the white, snow-covered scenery.
She hadnt said a word, but before she realized it, she was deeply invested in Allen''s words.
Allen went on, cutting himself off when he thought the time was right, and then began to meander toward broaching the question in his mind.
"But you look like youre doing just fine Are you used to the heat?
Inellia couldnt find ''anything'' about her.
Hometown, family rtionships, schooling, or standard of living, nevermind how she couldve been traced back to the First Warrior.
Maria had appeared out of thin air, bearing the title of descendant of the First Warrior.
She didn''t say anything.
Just as Allen wondered at her silence, she spoke, "I''m used to the heat."
"Then you must be from the south or the middle of the continent?
"Do you need to know?
The atmosphere changed.
"Not really."
"Allen, you said you were an aristocrat."
Her expression was a little more intense than usual and the speed at which she spoke was faster as well.
Keeping an eye on her somewhat atypical mood, Allen replied, "That''s right."
"I heard that aristocrats are particrly sensitive to their own privacy.
"Yes, you are right."
"So am I.
Maria''s voice had returned to normal. Allen realized that he had messed up.
He usually had some tact.
''I knew she was hiding her story, but I didn''t expect her to have such a pointed reaction to something so benign.
Was there something there?
Allen admitted his mistake. "Please excuse me. I apologize."
"It''s all right."
"Thank you. As an apology, I''ll show you a ce Ive been going totely. The tea there smells quite delicious."
When Allen booked their next appointment out of habit, she epted it without disying too much doubt.
"Mhm."
Allen blinked at Maria, who had returned to her original state, and said, "Well?"
"What?"
"Did something happen today?"
Her pupils rapidly contracted, but returned to their normal diameter in no time.
"No?"
Seeing her denial, Allen began to fit together the pieces of the puzzle, recalling how she seemed more on-edge than normal.
"By any chance, did it have to do with that thing about the ruins simtion?
Ah."
That was it.
She clenched her hand for a split second.
Hiiissss.
The cat hurriedly began to struggle.
She immediately realized her mistake and rxed her grip, but the cat, which had lost several strands of fur as a result, quickly turned the corner and disappeared.
"Oh"
"Gosh, I guess something is just off today.
"It''s because of you.
When Maria squinted her eyes at him, Allen stepped back gracefully.
"I didn''t do anything." Maria stared at him. "But really, do you want to tell me what happened?"
"I don''t know."
After thinking for a moment, she shook her head. Whatever shed thought of wasn''t enough, so she turned around and began to walk.
"Thats alright," he said.
"I''m going."
Allen stepped back.
If I force her to cross the line, Ill ruin our current rtionship.
Allen was satisfied with her momentary hesitation.
Because it meant that hed found somethinga soft spot.
''I wasing on too strong just now.
In the end, there was no other choice but to let the chips fall where they may and passively look for more opportunities.
Allen loudly called out to her retreating figure. "By the way, the dormitory is the other way.
Maria froze, her ears turning red. Then, she turned around and headed toward the dormitory, as if thest few steps had never happened in the first ce.
"Thank you," she said in a small voice.
"Don''t mention it."
* * *
* * *
Once the freshmen had adapted to life at the Academy, the day finally came.
It was time for the students to choose their own subjects.
Thus far, the freshmen had been divided into only two sses: a supplementary ss and a general ss. However, at the end of the month''s evaluation, they would be divided into supplementary, lower, intermediate, upper, and advanced sses.
Allen was, of course, assigned to the advanced ss.
Hed choose the subjects he wanted and take sses in that path.
Even though some ssmates were grouped together, they wouldnt take the same subject.
The potential to be in the same ss as their seniors gave younger students a sense of superiority. It was the sort of structure where they had no choice but to jump into endlesspetition to prove themselves.
''It''s still awkward for now, but theyll all realize soon.
The freshmen were talking to the friends theyd made in their early stages of life at the Academy.
"What ss are you going to take?"
"I''ve been taking regr knight sses, so I''m probably going to try for a closebat ss."
"Anything else? Did your family tell you to do anything in particr? Oh, wait. You''re amoner. Do they do that?"
"No, yeah, they do."
"What?"
"I have to take basic spirits. My father recently bought a ve elf to be his new wife."
"An elf as a ve?"
However, unlike at the beginning when students divided themselves by race and status, they were pretty inclusive now.
Allen was almost impressed.
''It''s certainly a clever trick.
Under the guise of assessing their skills during the first week, the freshmen hadpeted with upperssmen to cultivate a sense of homogeneity and cooperation between them, the lowest in the ranks. Those of noble blood, including the Vice President of their student body, continued to sympathize with the idea.
With the inclusion of a few additional stressors, it wasnt long before students learned that they could get along without excluding each other.
One of the reasons that may have been a contributing factor was that most of those who entered the school were rather talented.
However, what was surprising was that Allen had made a difference in encouraging the intermingling between those of different statuses and ethnicities.
''Those who were unlikely toe together sorted themselves out in the early stages, so this kind of mixing now isnt strange.
Allen finished choosing his sses as these thoughts ran through his head. He would be taking them for the next year, so he nned them out in advance.
The eight subjects that hed chosen were as follows:
- Understanding Space - Honors
- Multteralism of Souls
- Summoner Contracts (with Drill)
- Introduction to Multidimensional Studies
- Introduction to Natural Barriers
- Orchestra (I)
- Practical Dungeon Training 1
- Monster Ecology 1
Adding on Practical Dungeon Training and Monster Ecology as his mandatory subjects, hed chosen his schedule.
Although he couldve taken up to ten subjects, Allen had to consider the time he needed to practice swordy.
''I can keep learning swordsmanship from Ves.
For him, it was enough to aim for improving his magicthat was his original purpose ining to the Academy, anyway.
The amount of mana he possessed at the moment wasntparable to what he had in his previous life, and yet his current rate of growth was stagnant.
For the sake of the future, this situation needed to be quickly remedied.
"After youve filled out the form as you were instructed, your application for sses will bepleted once you tear the sheet.
Almost as soon as the professor at the desk finished speaking, the sound of tearing paper filled the ssroom. The torn papers flickered blue and slowly faded into the air.
What type of magic even is that?
Spacial ressification, teleportation, dissolution
It wouldnt be wrong to view the ideas hede to settle upon as magic performed by a rank 7 sorcerer.
In full admiration for the hidden potential in those at the Academy, Allen tore his paper.
Crackle.
The paper vanished into the air.
"And to exin a little more about merits it''s the citys main currency.
They were used in the shopping district on the streets of Elpis, or in renting or exchanging items from the Academy.
"You can get merits through various means. There are some details on the back of the pamphlet that you shouldve gotten, so you can find some methods there.
Exploring ruins, carrying out research, saving people, or killing a certain number of monsters.
"You can use them in many ces. More about that is on the back of the pamphlet as well, so read it well."
Allen cast his gaze away.
Heisel yawned, appearing fully uninterested, and Maria was expressionless, as always.
"You can even pay for private lessons from Gaillon or Jaqnelle, so please take advantage of this situation."
When his speech had concluded, the students murmured with surprised tones.
"Wow, private lessons with the Top Eight?"
"I''ll have to do that."
"Hm, should I get some work with my familys soldiers? Or find a mercenary to shadow
"I need to find out more right now. I need to take this opportunity to stand out to the Top Eight
Some talked excitedly to their peers sitting beside them, some were in awe of the irreceable opportunity, and others still were carefully calcting where their money could be most beneficial.
The ssroom quickly grew noisy.
Themoners, too, talked among their peers with flushed faces, as if dreaming of the futures they could build for themselves.
Unlike them, however, Allen was not swept away by the professor''s words.
There was an unimaginable difference between what they were expecting and the reality of the currency.
One coaching session costs 10,000 merits.
A low-level monster earned half a merit. Exploring ruins was 10 to 100 merits, depending on the difficulty. Each life saved was 5 merits, but with additional bonuses based on their status.
It cost 3,000 merits to ess and exchange goods within the Academys warehouse. He couldnt imagine how much work hed have to put in to get to take lessons with the Top Eight.
''I can''t just spend a lifetime building up merits, and I still have to take my sses through the Academy
It would be almost impossible to measure.
Several other students sighed, as if they, too, had realized this.
"Alright, cut it out. Well then, Illl let you all go Oh, and I almost forgot.
The professor, who had swiftly calmed down the disturbance in the ssroom, flicked his fingers.
Poof.
A piece of paper appeared in front of each student.
"As you can see there, the entire freshman ss will go for a dungeon practice-raid in two weeks."
Allen took a moment to scan through his memory for what would happen in the dungeon practice, but gave up when nothing came to mind.
''There are more important things to pay mind to.
Such as an event that would take ce shortly.
Well separate you into groups, and a second-year student will be assigned to lead each batch of freshmen. Also, you can also earn merits there, so pleasee prepared."
Soon the school would be attacked by an intruder.
It''s relevant to my own surroundings, so I should be on the lookout.
He couldnt help but care about his subordinate''s business.
He had to pay more attention to what he knew would ur based on his past life, before his regression.
Thats all.
As the professor''s words came to a close, the bell rang, and the ss ended.
Allen rose.
He knew it was going to happen soon, so he had to move fast.
As soon as he left the ssroom, someone called his name.
"Allen, over here."
Before he turned his head toward the voice, another voice called out to him.
"Allen." The owners tone of voice was stiff. "I don''t think Ill be able to see you at night again for a while.
"Why didn''t you answer me when I called you what?
Rachael''s footsteps, headed toward Maria''s voice, suddenly stopped.
"Something hase up." Maria''s expression remained unchanged. "So, see you again in a few days."
"Again?"
"And lets change the location. I''m tired of the alley.
Alley? Tired?
Rachael picked out strangely specific words from her derations.
"Wait"
Allen realized that she had misunderstood.
"Bye."
However, Maria left the ssroom, leaving her words behind before Allen had the chance to correct them.
"Ah"
Allen sighed.
Having witnessed the scene, Rachael ran straight to him, grabbed his cor, and yanked it.
Allen was gently attracted to her touch.
"Allen, exin. Now."
"I''ll exin everything, wait
Youre so popr, huh? Youre happy, huh? You yboy!
Would you please shut your mouth.
What mouth? Im a sword. Be nicer to me, Ves cried excitedly, as if fascinated by the spectacle.
Allen lowered his head, holding back his inner desire to spit out the multitude of curses running through his mind.
Rachael''s eyes,kes of blue, transparently reflected her feelings.
"Tell me the truth, what is she to you?"
Chapter 74
Chapter 74
No, you shouldve just told me that if it wasnt like that.
Rachael looked away, ashamed of her earlier actions.
"You didn''t give me a chance to talk."
When Allen replied back with a dumbfounded expression, she pretended to be unfazed. "Well, I-I mean, it was a situation where a-anyone wouldve misunderstood, right?
She ignored her stuttering.
"I would have sworn on mana, too.
"Well, that''s that, but
Allen had rushed out of the ssroom with her just as they had begun to attract attention.
''She wasn''t that loud. There mustve only been a few people who heard it.
There was nothing more tiring than being the center of love rumors.
After Rachael realized that Allen and Maria were not in the sort of rtionship she had been imagining, she and Allen spoke in less pointed words.
"The person in question is Maria Caritas, a supposed descendant of the First Warrior. However, she is in no sort of rtionship with your current partner in conversation.
"So it seems."
After Allen had escaped to a ce that was decently deserted, he stopped walking, having thought of something.
She stopped along with him.
"Dont you trust me?"
"O-of course I do!"
"Seriously?"
"Yes."
She sure looks pretty ufortable saying that.
Seeing Rachaels eyes swinging quickly from side to side, Allen agreed internally with Ves.
"Well, let''s stop talking about that Oh! You know I''m going to a dungeon practice-raid in two weeks, right? You have to do that too, right?"
She changed the subject as if the thought had just suddenly urred to her.
Allen obediently followed along. "Youreing?"
Yes. Remember that super huge vibration from a little bit ago? When the white book had a reaction?
"Yes."
"I heard that the vibration was due to the emergence of a super huge ruins sitea megaruins."
A megaruins.
''What does that have to do with the white book?
Was it rted to the being that had given him ess to it? Or with the person to whom its inscribed name belonged?
The timing was too perfect to see it as a coincidence.
Either way, this was a good opportunity. He had to go to the dungeon, so he could approach the matter without forcing it.
"So, this dungeon practice-raid will be conducted with the entire freshman ss. We wont have to divide up at all.
Allen nodded.
"And when we go, some of the second-years will serve as leaders for the freshmen and one of them is me."
"I see.
The second years would get a chance to lead the freshmen, and the freshmen would see some of the practical experience that the second years had attained.
"It''ll be a good opportunity to gain experience. However, it means that there could be injuries
"Don''t worry about that. Well bring basic protective artifacts and first aid equipment."
"Thats good."
It was only for the purpose of gaining experience, so there wasnt need to prepare too much.
"Then, is there anything else I need to do to prepare before then?"
"Yes, you need to have explored some local ruins before and apart from that, theres nothing else.
She seemed quite relieved when she had seeded in totally changing the subject.
"Oh, thats right. Allen, have you met any students your family is sponsoring yet?"
"Sponsored students?"
"Yes."
Allen knew that the Reinhart family was sponsoring several students, but he didn''t know who they were.
"No I don''t know them. It''s my fathers decision."
The reason behind sponsoring students was simple.
''It''s to funnel them into employment in our own territory.
Richer families supported poorer students at the Academy until their graduation. And then, the sponsoredmoners went to work for the family that sponsored them.
"I''ve met him, I thinka senior in the same club as me. He''s really good
Thus, she ryed a few stories, seeming to think it would fully bridge the gap in their rtionship that had been put on pause for a few days.
"Oh, Allen, did you hear?
She looked around and lowered her voice as if to share something surreptitious.
"The Beast King Gaillons grandchild has matricted in the new ss of students, too.
She spoke as if it were a secret, but Allen had already known.
''She doesnt have to be so nervous about just talking.
No matter what Allen thought, though, she flung out her words at a rapid pace.
"I don''t know if theyre a boy or a girl Of course, they must be a demi-human since theyre the grandson of the Beast King, right? Ah, Im so nervous, even though were probably not even on the same side of campus right now.
She seemed more excited by the rumor itself than by having a conversation about it with Allen.
''Well, as far as I''m concerned, theyre probably more of a human being than a typical demi-human.
To the point that they would be indistinguishable from a purebred human.
"Of course, it''s only the beginning of the semester, so they must be intentionally keeping their skills on the down-low. But I think there''s a chance that they''ll stand out in this dungeon practice-raid
Allen smiled bitterly at her prediction.
Of course Rachael thinks she would be a warrior because shes the granddaughter of the Beast King.
Unfortunately, she was not a warrior.
Because of her thin blood, it was difficult for her to use aura, the only ability of demi-humans, and she wasnt particrly talented in the use of magic. Her personality wasnt especially violent, either; in fact, she was the total opposite.
I hope Linbelle is doing well.
Allen briefly looked toward the training center, a slight walk from the main building.
"Allen, what is it? What are you doing? Hm?
"No, I don''t think that theyll necessarily be warriors, even if they are the grandchildren of the Beast King. Maybe they came to the school unexpectedly?
"The grandchild of one of the Top Eight? Rachael covered her mouth and smiled with her eyes, then affirmed in a ridiculous tone, "So you do have a cute side.
"Stop that. Maybe for all the other Eight, but the Beast King? The one who went through such an ordeal? Would he really let his grandchild get stuck in his same position? Thats absolutely impossible.
Allen didn''t say anything more. If he hadnt had his regression, he would have reacted the same way.
"Wouldnt it be more usible for them to be hiding their skills in the supplementary ss like Julius?
"You think so?"
"Yes. Oh,e to think of it, do you know why Julius is suddenly hanging out with Cathleen?"
She monitored Allen''s expression, as if trying to read his face, and went on.
"You know what happened with Julius and Cathleen What''s the point in sticking around after getting dumped like that?
Rachael''s expression was full of discontent.
Regardless of her new mood, Allen felt that things were going smoothly.
''Did Catherine safely make contact with him?''
He mustve taken a liking to her again after she led him to the actual store owner of Valholl.
Itd be really good for Allen if she could be a bigger part of Juliuss life
''Since herpetition is pretty into Julius, how difficult of a task will that be?
Hed rather y a role in coordinating the rtionship than have to be in her position, doing it himself.
"What do you think? Do you know anything?"
"Well, not really."
"Hmm, is that so?"
After talking about and worrying over Cathleen for a while, Rachael left Allen, saying she had to go to ss.
I should hear something from Linbelle''s side soon, and Ive established a rtionship with Elijah
Hed also built the foundation of a friendship with Maria.
However, since hadnt seen Heisel in a few weeks, Allen decided that he needed to take other measures.
Heisel seemed to have gotten a lot closer to Juliustely.
''At least we can use the gray book to see how that rtionship is developing, or what hes after right now.
It was clear that he had more secrets than he was letting on.
''Then what I have to think about now is
Allen stayed a little longer after she left, then returned to the dormitory.
* * *
* * *
"Sir, I''ve heard from the Minima tribe."
"The Minima tribe? From Alexius?"
"Yes."
As soon as Allen entered his room, Inellia handed him a letter.
"He reached outter than Id expected.
He thought Alexius would contact him right after the entrance ceremony.
What was written in the letter was simple.
It''s time to keep that promise.
The fact that it contained only what was necessary without any fancy rhetoric or any long-winded adtion spoke a little to the authors character.
"Did you get anything else besides the letter?"
They said they would tell you the location of the megaruins again in the near future.
"Anything else?"
"From what I''ve dug up on my own it is probable that the direction they are heading is rted to that big rumbling incident a little while ago I''ll investigate a little more and sort it out for you."
It was about that megaruins again
Is this really a coincidence?
It was too early to be sure, so he decided that hed better pay attention.
You never know.
The location of the Academys dungeon practice-raid might coincidentally ovep with the ce the Minami tribe wanted him to go.
He felt that it was necessary to prepare for anything, seeing as the ck book didnt describe any special event rted to this.
"Anything else? Did you happen to find anything at the auction house?
"Nothing."
"What a shame."
Allen gathered his patience. Getting upset now wouldnt change anything. The important thing was to not miss the opportunity once it eventually came someday.
"I''m headed out again. Keep up the good work.
"Yes, sir."
"And I''ll rethink the alchemy situation we were talking aboutst time."
Inellia nodded, her answer seemingly unchanged.
"Then, that''s all that I had."
Soon after, the Academy would be attacked with the aid of an internal coborator.
What they were after was the escaped heretic saintess.
A woman had kidnapped the Heavenly Seadragon and was secretly hiding her identity, disguised as a student in the supplementary ss.
There were also a few others supplying weapons to the raiders who attacked the Academy out of revenge.
''Or, at least, thats how its supposed to go.
It wasnt something hed experienced in his life before the regression.
Although its not something I personally experienced, it was present in the ck book. But it doesnt matter.
The Sindri siblings.
He confirmed on hisst visit that they had a connection with the heretics that attacked the Academy: the Circtors.
Thisin addition to the fact that it was written in the original workproved the validity of a potential attack to him.
''Ill make contact with the Circtors through them.
After that, he would attempt to strike a deal with thema bit of a risky gamble.
The saint was to be one of Julius''s women, so Julius would have no choice but to encounter the group every once in a while.
''Maybe theyll be a card I could take advantage of.
It may fail.
However, if it were to seed
Allen stretched, cutting off the idea before it fully formed in his mind.
Nothing had been properly set in ce yet.
He didn''t want to get excited for no reason.
He walked a little faster.
The road to the industrial district seemed a little bit longer today.
* * *
There was a secret spot in Elpis, surrounded by pirs and splendidly embossed patterns of antique white marble. The solemn atmosphere exuded by the architecture made him feel the need to act more delicately, taking care to exhale even the smallest breath with care.
And at the center, with sunlight pouring in a direct path from the sky, sat Maria.
Her eyes were closed and unmoving, and her white face and matching white hair glimmered in the sunlight.
A huge tree was painted on the floor where she sat,posed of ten circles with an image of a snake coiling around it.
She sat in the tenth circle, painted to represent its roots.
For a moment, a brilliant golden light shone over her body. The circle in which she was sitting released a steady glow as it stretched out to the ninth circle. That circle, too, began to glow, stretching up through the eighth and seventh circle, as well. The golden mana began to fade to white as it went through the circle, and at the moment it was finally about to turnpletely white, it shook.
The shaking light pulsed for a moment before suddenly dying down.
"How distracting."
A gentle voice broke the silence. The sound of cheerful footsteps that apanied it caught his attention. A beautiful woman came before them.
"It was a problem not only today, but yesterday and the day before as well. Its been shaking for the past month, Anastasia, the chairman of the Galshdin Academy, said in a calm voice.
Maria did not answer, but Anastasia did not mind.
"Is it because you lost your position as the top of the ss?"
Anastasia took a step closer.
"Or because you failed to activate the powers of the Holy Sword? I heard you''ve been having trouble with the ruin simtions as well.
Another step.
"Or Is it because of the one there beside you, who youve been meeting every night?"
Maria looked up. She watched Anastasia without even a flicker of emotion. Anastasia smiled as they faced each other.
Anastasia knew.
She had worked hard to figure it outwhat emotionsy beyond that expressionless face.
What exactly it was she was trying so hard to hide.
Thats not how you go about generating the tree. You must flow upward, or break each shell individually.
She began to smile.
"To act in ordance with the title of ''Descendants of the First Warrior'', you must be strong. Moreso than anyone else. If you stay as you are that wouldnt really work out, would it?
"I know."
Silent up to that moment, Maria then responded. Anastasia smiled broadly at her words.
"As long as youre aware. You know, this would never have happened had fate had its way
Even if things hadnt gone to n, it was still the universes n. Even if the words written in prophecy were nullified the second things went astray, that was the true course of fate.
It was fates doing that whatever happened happened, and what should happen would happen. At some point, however, the n had gone off course.
"Even if we''re trying to follow the proper path, we cannot know when it is that fate will run entirely off track.
So before that path waspletely lost, it was necessary to follow the intended flow.
"For my sake and for yours as well."
She took a moment to remember. A time when they had imagined that the world would stay like that forever. A time of worship and solidarity in their belief that the universe would guide all.
But that era was over.
It had been buried in history.
"Well, still, there must be some darkness to allow the light to shine.
She smiled gracefully as she covered her mouth.
In order to fulfill the dream shed been working toward since she woke up again, Maria had to grow further.
More than she had already.
So much more that she could do anything she wanted.
That was why the opportunity ahead was so particrly appealing.
"Stand out in this dungeon practice-raid."
She turned her back on Maria. There was a certain sternness in what she said.
"I couldn''t check it out as I was unable to leave the area of the Holy Sword but an ancient monster is likely to be there.
Her steps were fading away.
"It will be too much for the students to deal with, so after a few have suffered some damage take care of it."
"Mhm."
"I''ve taken care of everything on my end, so dont disturb me."
Maria nodded her head.
Anastasia moved in response to her answer, turning her head only to see Maria, as if she had forgotten to share one more word.
"Because you are our only hope."
Dozens of indistinct voicesof men and women of all agebined in her reminder.
Sharing her message with such a bizarre voice, she looked at Maria with a benevolent face, as if her voice was no different from her norm.
"So please do your best."
Maria had nothing to say.
The tapping of Anastasias heels echoed as she walked away.
Chapter 75
Chapter 75
Loren, the secretary of the student council, had amoner background. Now turning 23 this year, hed matricted into the Academy back when he was 19 years old. He just barely managed to get in, narrowly squeaking past the standards set by the Academy.
However, that didn''t mean hecked ability.
It was just that the baseline for talent at Galshdin Academy was astronomically high. At his level, he could immediately upy intermediate-level positions no matter where he was dispatched, even if he was on the lower end of Academy standards.
He had a mediocre appearance and a mediocre personalitya rtively typical disposition that was so average, it was honestly hard toe by.
He was one of those students who seemed to be simultaneously present and absent from the student council.
"Sir, we have a letter for you."
"Really? Thank you."
The lettera white sheet of paperwas delivered to him as he wrapped up his work for the day.
Loren looked at the letter, his name the only thing written upon it, with a puzzled face.
''Well, I wonder who sent me a letter? I thought Id received all of the forms already?
This was his fourth year.
Delivering information. Making lists. Retrieving certain items at the auction.
When he first came in, it was hard for him to sleep at night because he was too frazzledacting as a spy for the Academy, letting his peace of mind slip from him more than he anticipated.
This time, if he could only catch the traitor, he would tie up all the loose ends of his missionpletely.
That was why hed be morex.
Even though a spy should never let down their guard.
Loren opened the letter without any hesitation.
"Oh."
He froze.
(We hereby request that a Cirction ceremony be held.
We thereupon wish to verify the incarnation via the three stages of deprivation, cirction, and manifestation.)
A shocking deration was written atop the white background.
Loren sprang to his feet. He didn''t even recognize that someone had bumped into him.
"Oh, my God."
"I''m sorry."
"Loren!"
He made a hasty apology and ran outside. He heard someone calling him from behind, but he didn''t care.
He didnt have time to worry about such a thing.
''The priestI have to go to the priest.
This issue was not something that he could resolve on his own.
Loren hurried to one of Elpis''s secret strongholds. He made as many unnecessary, repetitive turns as possible as he traveled, but if anyone had followed him, they surely could have caught him.
But it was far more important that he deliver this letter.
Loren arrived at a warehouse on the outskirts of the industrial district and rushed into the normally vacant space.
"Father!"
Bang!
Father Mn had been having a light meal when he heard the violent sound of the door opening, sighing when he realized that it was Loren.
"You surprised me, Brother Loren. I don''t know what''s going on, but let''s take a deep breath before we begin
Shaking his head wildly at the Fathers words, Loren gasped for air as he eximed, "Ceremony!"
"What?"
"You have been called upon to execute a Cirction ceremony!"
ng.
The Mn priest dropped the spoon he was holding. His mouth cked open, his expression incredulous.
"Wh-what did you just say?"
"Finally, the time has finallye, Father!"
Loren knelt down with jubnt eyes. Those eyes, rolled back in ecstasy, gave off an eerie glow.
"The Apostle of the Prophecy has appeared."
* * *
With ten days remaining until the dungeon practice-raid, the day had finallye.
The day that Cirction, thergest of the cults who currently carried prominence, would carry out their attack on Aveline, the saintess in question and one of the forces who fought with Heisel in the original storyline.
Originally, the Sindri siblings would join the attack, but
They would be upied working in the cksmith''s shop ording to the n being executed by Cathleen.
Though hed originally nned on keeping them busy himself.
I guess its the butterfly effect or whatever
Who would have known that she, who had been the one to get dumped, would head to the Academy and subsequently recognize and support their talent.
He was d she had lingered.
Otherwise, he would have had trouble finding another cksmith ofparable talent.
"Is this the right ce?"
In an area a short distance from the main building stood an annex, where students could submit documents to create a club. Julius had made an appointment there.
''Because I have to protect Aveline.
He could build a good rapport with her, and he needed her to help the god grow. As a saintess, she would be endlessly useful to him.
If she was raised well, he wouldnt have to worry about recruiting healers in the future.
Julius arrived in front of the ssroom hidden away in the corner of the first floor of the annex.
Just as he began to wonder if he was in the right ce for his appointment, someone popped open the door.
"Sir Julius!"
"Wow! That scared me Irene?
Julius took a step back with a surprised face, and Irene smiled and grabbed his wrist.
"Hehe, what are you doing here? Come on in."
"Wait"
When he entered the ssroom, there were six people who had arrived in advance. They watched and greeted him as Julius slowly entered the ssroom, examining the faces of those present.
Anya, Aveline, Cathleen, Natasha, Helena, Irene, and Byron.
The talent hed collected thus far.
It was reassuring to see that they were all still on his side.
It seemed that there were still some people whose positions were up in the air, but if he took the time to really recruit them, he figured that he could move them toward the right path.
"Why are you sote, huh?"
Helena squinted at the clock. Seeing the clock passing the 10 oclock mark, Julius made an excuse.
"In my home kingdom, the more important the appointment, theter you arrive
"That doesn''t mean youre notte.
Julius bowed slightly at her wrath.
"My bad."
"Do better next time."
She bowed her head, satisfied with Julius''s apology. Looking toward the corner, he saw Byron standing like a stone statue with a firmly set expression.
He could sense Byron silently asking for help, perhaps out of fear of being left alone in an enclosed space with only women.
''Help me, My Lord
Im sorry.
Averting his gaze, Julius turned toward an unusual cry.
Gyahooo, gyahooo!
The god, a ball of white fur with small, purple horns poking out from the top of its head, had finally hatched a few days ago and now cried vigorously in a woman''s arms. She had brown, bobbed hair down to her shoulders and a yful expression to match.
She was the heretic saintess who hid her identity, and was now the owner of the Heavenly Seadragon, the whereabouts of which were still unknown.
* * *
* * *
Aveline and Anya were taking care of the god together.
"Here! Here! If you can do this, I''ll give you a little treat, huh? Cmon.
Gyaho! Gyaho!
"Aveline. Its still a god Asking it to y fetch is a bit
"Oh, a god is supposed to be raised like this. Have you raised a god before?
"Oh, no"
"Uh-huh, then listen to me. I''ve already raised one once."
"Uh, well Lying in this situation is a bit
Anya wondered whether or not she should believe what she said. In the meantime, Aveline set the god on the floor to see if it would really y fetch.
Julius called out the name hed proudly given it before passing on ownership of the god.
"Dongdong,e here."
Gyaho?
When its name was called, Dongdong, the god, turned its head.
"Julius, please don''t call it that." Natasha dropped her uninterested act as her eyes widened in surprise.
Aveline nodded in agreement. "Yeah, what the fuck kind of name is Dongdong?"
"What''s wrong with Dongdong?"
Julius felt that the usations were unjust.
How could they know that Dondong was dissatisfied with its name?
"Nothing at all. Dongdong."
GYAHO.
Pet names are meant to be affectionate.
"It''s not a pet, it''s a fucking god."
"Yeah, its a god."
"Mister God."
When Juliius nodded, as if indicating that he roughly got the point, Natasha tensed up.
Just as she was about to say something, Cathleen intervened. She had been carefully observing the situation as it unfolded since Julius first entered.
"I think it''s alright."
Natasha, one beat behind her, kept her own thoughts to herself.
"It''s up to you. If thats what you want, then thats that, right?"
"But still."
"What if we still dont like the next name you choose?
"I think it''s useless to argue about something thats already been settled."
At her rebuttal, Natasha looked at the creature with a sad face and nodded. "You are right."
"M-me too, and I think what Julius says should go!" Irene had been looking for a break in the conversation and quickly opened her mouth to interject, her eyes filled with impatience.
Cathleen, pretending to not be Juliuss ex-fiance, began, "That''s right"
Irene interrupted to keep her in check. "Honestly, I thought it was so weird at first, but its growing on me now that I keep hearing it!
''We didn''t have any rtionship at all until we came to the capital.
Then suddenly, Julius began to take an interest in her.
Irene put up with that fact even though it was very, very, very unpleasant. She had no choice but to put up with his attention, after all. But on the other hand, she couldn''t help feeling nervous about losing him.
Cathleen took a step back and smiled slightly at Irene''s action, and Irene breathed a sigh of relief at Cathleen''s response.
''This is funny. This is really fuckin funny.''
Helena smiled in amusement at the whole scene.
What could make so many women cling to him?
She remembered how he appeared at the ck markethis cold, violent appearance. Yet on the surface, he was polite and sometimes even a little servile on asion.
Such a discrepancy in behavior was really quite amusing to her.
"So" Looking around quietly, Byron made a small gesture. "Sir, why did you bring us together?
As his words gathered the eyes of all who were talking, Byron shrank in on himself. The eyes of women were hard on him, a poor ugly fellow with little to no prior contact with women.
Gyaho?
Julius shifted his expression into a more serious one, stroking Dongdong, who was looking up at him.
"Oh, it''s nothing."
Julius watched their expressions. He couldnt reveal the reason why they were there.
As members of the newly established traveling club, were going to decide on our first destination.
[The Academy will be under attack soon. Were here to prepare for those attacks.]
"The first event is always the most important, you know. So don''t you think it''d be better to decide our first destination altogether than for me to just pick one by myself?
[If they know about Aveline''s goal, then it''s obvious that she will be targeted. We need to be physically together with her to prevent any harm froming to her.]
Cathleen nodded to his words and agreed.
"Oh, I see Alright, I guess. But did you really need to call everyone together?
"There may be ces that I want to go to that other people dont, so I just wanted to hear everyones opinion.
[Other students lives could be lost in the process]
"Natasha is an elf, and Aveline is from the South, right? Everyone else here are humans from the Kingdom of Liber."
[If the attack is prolonged, authorities wille to settle it, and itll start gaining attention. A lot of attention.]
"Even if there are a lot of peopleing from the same background, the ces theyd want to go may be different. I think it''s better to just do it together all at once.
[Us taking care of it is better than making the attack publicly known. Oh, plus there''s a bounty on Cirction, right?]
"Well, I guess youre right. Sure. If thats what you all want, then so be it."
"We''re all in the same supplementary ss, so we should all take care of it as a team, right?"
At his words, Avelineughed dumbfounded. "What kind of supplementary ss has ever beaten their seniors, geez
At those words, something seemed to ur to Natasha. "Oh, that reminds me of What ever happened to that senior you fought with?
"I don''t know. Hes probably in a hospital room somewhere?
Aveline looked at Julius and said, "Julius, I can cure him if you want. Do you want me to do it?
"Its fine. He didnt have a good reputation, anyway. You don''t need to go out of your way for a guy like that.
"That''s right. You don''t have to do it. He''s already cured anyway."
Eyebrows furrowing at Helena''s reply, Julius realized who was behind it.
The vice president, the second heir He could find the means to cure such an injury.
Next time, he''d finish him offpletely.
Having finished his ruminations, he nced at his watch and began to speak again. "Then lets get started. Where do you all want to go for our first destination as the traveling club?
The anticipated time of the attack was estimated to be around 11 o''clock.
There wasnt much time left.
Julius continued his preparations, maintaining his defensive stance.
''I''ve informed Laina, so Im gonna leave it up to her to take care of Allen.
Preparations for the attack nowplete, Julius calmed his racing heart at the clear and expected sight of hispanions, their gazes focused solely on him.
And
"Huh?"
nothing happened.
"No, wait a minute."
Until the end of the day.
* * *
The first prophet, ''Cold me, announced, "A potential candidate for the Apostle has been found. But there''s a problem."
The second prophet, Dry Wave, replied, "What problem? We cannot afford to wait any longer. These waves of death and destruction must be stopped."
The third prophet, ''Burnt Roots, whispered, "Cough, cough, hehehe, th-there a-are t-t-two candidates, too!
The fourth prophet, Pulverized Steel,ughed, "One must be false, and one must be true.
The final and fifth prophet, ''Poor Soil, asked, "Has there been any verification? Just in time I was asked to hold a ceremony for the Cirction."
Five spoke, and five answered.
Four discussed, one recorded.
Three suggested, two verified.
Two contemted, three confirmed.
One agreed, and four refused.
The discussion of five had concluded.
"One shall move, and they shall verify as well. Judgment shall arrive thereafter."
The fire had been cooled, the water had been dried, the steel had been pulverized, and the soil had been made poor and malnourished.
Only the burnt roots remained.
"Apostle~ Oh, apostle~ cough, cough."
Chapter 76
Chapter 76
The stars poured like rain over the clear night skya meteor shower falling across the heavens.
The stars were stars, but one was not.
Descending upon the world with a long tail, the star that was not a star fell onto the head of the chieftain who slept not a wink through the night and delivered unto him a sentence.
[Find the Ness of Stars and save the exiled incarnation.]
At the long-awaited revtion from the stars, the chiefs of the Minima and Arachni tribes summoned their tribal members, despite thete hour.
When the chief said that the stars had given him a revtion, they rejoiced. As soon as the day dawned, they scattered throughout the Great Desert to carry out the instructions imparted to them.
As priests and as children of the stars, they had to fulfill the word of god.
Theybed the valley cut and divided by the sandstorm and threw themselves into peril, and in the process, monsters attacked their viges.
However, they had yet to find any of the stars.
It was almost impossible to find a ness surrounded by water in a desert full of sand.
Yet they never gave up.
Like that, the years passed.
They still had yet to find the Ness of Stars, but there had been considerable progress.
They had learned that the Ness of Stars was a ce in the figurative sense, not a part of actual topography. On top of that, the site was likely to be filled with relics.
Opinions were divided on the issue of the incarnation in question. Some argued it could have been made manifest in human form while others argued for a sacred object that could be thought of as an alter ego.
The tribes eventually changed their n of action when they failed to find the Ness of Stars after having searched the expanse of the Great Desert. Instead, they began to provide extensive guide workminimal enough in scale to just barely afford food for themselvesand built rtionships with as many people as possible that would excavate ruins for them.
In some cases, there were sacrifices by some tribesmen, but they continued on.
From the olden days when the gods personally delivered their own messages up to now, the tribes had great faith in theirmunication with the stars.
Thirty yearster, when the former chiefs child took the position of tribal chief when he was only a boy, another revtion fell.
Except what fell was not just one revtion, but multiple.
[Go westward to find the chosen one.]
[Give him aid so you may thereupon achieve your wish.]
[Do not find fear in hope. Concern yourself with ack of fulfillment.]
Multiple revtions were rarely witnessed, a spectacle usually only reserved for their ancient records.
''Thest time there was this type of revtion was 137 years ago
It was also a sign to help a man.
Unlike prophecies, which usually referred to events taking ce in years to decades, the contents of revtions were made apparent within a few days.
''At that time, they looked at the stone tablet and seemed surprised by something.
The unusual sight of them looking at the stone tablet with surprised faces captured attention, leaving a clear memory in its wake.
They took good care of the man in ordance with the stars revtion, and after ny-nine days, drove him out of the tribe, as was delivered in the revtion.
Thus, it likely wouldnt be long until this revtion, too, was to be realized.
Without fear of sandstorms, the tribes arrived near the western end of the Great Desert in the city of adventure, Kairan.
There, they met two men.
Allen and Julius.
At first, there was confusion about who would be the chosen one, but they soon stopped worrying.
''It could mean both of them.
Since they were from the same family, it could be argued that they were referred to as one person.
The chief did not readily make the mistake of using his own terms to define the word of god.
They delivered the brothers through the sandstorm to Elpis, as they wished, and finally seeded in fulfilling the revtion.
"Isn''t it a great relief, Chief?"
"Glory to the guidance of the stars.
The chief''s wrinkled eyes did not waver, even in response to Alexius''s genuine words.
"Even so who knew that finding the chosen one would lead to this?"
As Alexius''s eyes turned forward, he gazed upon a pointed spire towering above the sand.
The emergence of the four spires suggested that there was a huge castle buried beneath the wide expanse of sand.
"The size of one spire alone exceeds that of any ordinary ruin How great must the chambers of the main castle be
After it appeared with the huge tremors a few days prior, they realized that it was one of the rare superrge megaruins.
And so, as usual, they aided in guiding others to the ruins to explore.
However, when an investigation team from the Academy came to seize control of the ruins, they changed their stance.
"I''m sure this is the right ce, Chief, no Father.
"Our tribal chief is also convinced that this is the ce."
The revtion hade down to them, Allen and Julius were the suspected subjects of the revtion, and there was even a rumor that the Academy was ying their advantage of the firste first serve rule to take control of the megaruins.
"I know."
"Then why are you hesitating? If we dont go now, before the Academys team does, itll be toote."
Alexius was troubled.
The fact that the Academy would use adverse possession meant that they wouldnt be able to enter the ruins again for some time. Their only opportunity to get into the ruins would be as members of the pre-exploration advance team, under the promise to share the information they obtained within the ruins.
"Didn''t you already send out a letter?"
"I received a reply the other day that there are peopleing here for a dungeon practice-raid."
The chief did not me Alexius and Erini for urging him. Wasn''t that just how young blood was? He understood; he had once been like that.
How could you wait, feeling so sure that youd be sessful in achieving the revtion of the prophetic stars youre destined to serve?
"Well"
"The guild has already made their move. Even the mercenaries! If we don''t move quickly, we won''t have another chance!" Alexius spoke in earnest.
Erini nodded beside him, supporting his opinion.
The chief of the Minima tribe, despite the anger of his young sessors, was quietly lost in thought.
His inner conflict, however, was not a result of the oing danger. Rather, it was the weight of the wishes of the stars and knowing their disregard for the tribes sacrifices.
It took only one.
Is the revtion ordering us to help a chosen person just so we may be helped in making our way into the dungeon?
If that were the only reason, the other Academy students would all be of no concern.
There must have been a reason why the stars had singled them out.
However, they couldnt just sit and wait.
"Father!"
Hearing the sound outside, it was clear that Chief Arachni, who had left to calm the other restless young people, was also at his limit.
"if the chief doesn''t fulfill his obligations! If it were me, Id have gone already
"Yes, I will allow it."
!!
Alexius hurriedly raised his head.
"Send word to the tribesmen outside. I will give everyone a chance to fulfill the revtion."
"Finally! On it, sir."
The will of the universe could not be judged from the perspective of a mere mortal.
They had no choice but to do everything they could.
"I''m off to put together the preparations!"
"I will see you thereafter."
The chief quietly swept off the tombstone, watching Alexius and Erini as they shook the tent while leaving.
"Hurry. Go get ready.
His wrinkled eyes fell dark.
* * *
* * *
Supplementary, lower, intermediate, upper, and advanced sses.
Students were ssified into a total of five sses, but no ss was ever referred to by its formal name.
In other words, by alphabetical order, from ss A to ss E.
This was primarily because thebel of belonging to a lower ss would hurt students pride.
By using the alphabet instead of explicit words, they could save a bit of face.
"My name is Evan Baroque from ss C. I look forward to working with you."
"Oh, Evan. I''m Ariel Hail from ss D. What about you?"
Evan spoke confidently, trying to appear as self-possessed as possible. Ariel, standing in front of him, bowed in a modest gesture and turned her head to the side.
"Well, I''m William from ss B I dont have ast name."
Perhaps feeling burdened by their aristocratic gaze, William shuddered and avoided their eyes.
"Huh, ss B, you say Mr. William, you''re outstanding, arent you?"
Her eyes had shone from the moment he shared that he was in ss B, and she slowly showered him withpliments.
Mr. William Please, feel free to call me in a less formal way, Miss Ariel. I was just lucky to
"Call me Ariel."
As Arial approached, William moved back, blushing. And as Ariel showed her interest in William, Evan slipped in between them.
"Ehem, well, you sure must have been very lucky. Ill also be in ss B next semester, so I hope to see you in ss.
"Oh, Im sure youll see Sir Evan there.
Nobody could know for sure if their ims were truthful or not.
Ariel smiled and took a step back, and William cautiously began to speak, testing if their noble attention was truly that intimidating.
"Well, I also think that Sir Evan could b-be in ss B, too, of course."
"Is that so?"
Evanughed loudly at his ttery.
Evan confidently announced his position in ss C. Ariel said ss D. Along with them, William, in ss B, willingly lowered himself so as to not offend them.
Now, they were practicing for their battles set to take ce in a week.
Dozens of other students also gathered in front of the artificial ruins in preparation for the uing dungeon practice-raid.
The members of each group had been randomly selected with one from each ss and, thus, were currently greeting each other awkwardly.
The goal was to pass through the artificial ruins safely.
If they encountered no problems, the group would stay intact for the dungeon practice-raid, so they all knew to carefully assess each other over the next few hours.
"Wow! Mr. William is a rare healer, huh? I was really scared that I might get hurt What a relief!"
"If you get hurt, I''ll treat you."
"Thank you, Mr. William."
"I will stop all the enemies'' attacks for you."
"Sir Evan, youre pretty reliable, too."
Allen watched their interactions quietly.
Youre not gonna cut in?
I don''t have to approach them first.
Allen came to the Academy because he had goals. Networking was one of them, but he decided to take a different, less explicit approach.
It would be nice if I could approach them myself, but
It didn''t match his temperament.
"Mr. William, it''s good that you''re not as ipetent as all the rest of themoners I know.
"Sir Evan, isnt that too belittling toward Mr. William?"
"I don''t mind, sir."
Mr. William, you have a good personality. Is that why youre in ss B? Oh, wait. So weve all said hello to each other, but thest person
Ariels eyes turned to Allen, who had been quietly listening to their conversation.
Allen smiled mildly and bowed his head as if he hadnt just been sitting there with no expression.
"I couldn''t get a word in because you were having such a fun conversation. Let me say hello. My name is Allen Reinhardt from ss A."
"Thats him, the second in the ss
"Yes, thats correct. Allen nodded modestly.
Well, someones got guts
Quiet.
At first, they were unreceptive to the stranger, but their faces brightened after hearing more. It was just practice, but a dungeon was a dungeon. They couldn''t help but feelforted, thinking would pass safely because of Allen.
"I''ve heard a lot about the Reinhart family!"
"Ive heard your name beforethe name of Sir Allen spread throughout my home territory. Im so d Ive finally gotten to meet you
What the hell did they know about the Reinhart family?
Allen took up his usual guise, always maintaining a good image for the sake of any future nsnever allowing anyone to doubt his behaviorand replied, "Ive heard about the Baroque family, too. That theke atop one of the Baroque family territorys hills is so beautiful.
"You know of our greatke! If you ever pass by, please make sure to stop in."
"And isn''t the Hail family famous for their production of wine?"
"Oh, my. I''d love to invite you to a tasting event someday if youd be interested."
As Allen worked to gain their favor, he approached William, who had been left alone in the circle.
"Come on over here. I''m interested in healers. I have plenty of questions to ask you.
"R-really?" he rushed, excited to fulfill Allens curiosities in some way.
As they were rxing, talking amongst each other, the instructor shouted, "Now, quiet! Please enter the simted remains in the following order! First up: Allen Reinhart, Evan Baroque, Ariel Hail, and William."
Nominated for the first group, they looked back at each other.
Regardless of any nerves that may have gued them, they took their respective positions and headed toward the gray-colored portal.
Let''s finish this and get back quickly! Youre making me feel queasy acting like that.
Allen red at Ves without saying a word.
After a long time, the air trembled gently with the mana left free in the atmosphere.
The cool air of the ruins flowed out from the portal.
"Lets just do exactly as weve been told, and well get out just fine."
"A-alright."
"Lets do it, team."
"Gotcha."
Using only their senses to illuminate the geography, they moved into the darkness.
Theyd begun their excursion into the simted ruins.
* * *
"Why is he in the supplementary ss?"
"Are they together because they were just standing nearby?"
"No, isn''t Julius kinda good enough to be in ss A?
"I mean, maybe?
Aveline wrinkled her face, fed up with the murmuring around her.
"We''re minding our own business. Why do they care so much?
"Well, what can we really even do?"
"Julius, don''t you care at all about what they say?"
"Well.
Julius looked conflicted. After all, he understood why other people reacted that way.
Just as Julius was about to answer, they heard a voice.
"I understand their reactions. We have to form fair groups, but since we cant form groups with the people we already know within our own sses, we have no choice but to do it this way."
Someone said exactly what he was thinking.
Those from the supplementary ss were treated differently, merely because of the name associated with their supposed talents.
He thought of it as a good thing, since hed be stranded with total nipoops otherwise, but he knew that it probably seemed unreasonable to others in higher sses.
"Well, its fine enough for us."
When he turned toward the husky voice, he was met with a boy sporting a long mustacheconfusing on someone his agewho approached him donned in a full suit.
"Mattias."
"Julius, are you ready? If you know the secret of our family, as per the contract
"Yes, yes. Everything is ready. Don''t worry about it, and get ready for the ruins."
"Well then."
Mattias shrugged his shoulders.
It was a little ridiculous seeing the child openly forcing himself to imitate an adult.
He smiled in that same manner, then turned around and headed elsewhere.
Julius smiled faintly at the sight of him going away.
''It was easy to rope Mattias in, using his ancestors'' wishes as bait.''
He was expecting to get a lot of treasure through him.
Most of the poption of the supplementary sses were those who were extremely talented or who hid their power for some reason, such as Julius.
Julius knew that arge number of supporting characters from the novel were present in the supplementary ss when he read the novel itself.
So he purposely entered into the supplementary ss in order to befriend them.
And to guide the plot forward, as well.
Hed already contacted several people aside from Mattias, who he just talked to.
Originally, he nned to take a little more time on this stage, but things didnt go exactly ording to what was written in the novel. He felt the need to act quickly.
Kill the ancient monster sealed in the ruins and prevent disaster yourself! Time limit: 687:52:55.
Reward: Fragment of truth(???)
After all,rge-scale ruins absent from the novel had appeared.
''I don''t know exactly what the fragment of truth is, but I need to have it.
Maybe then, hed figure out how he got there.
"Next! Would the following studentse to the front
Julius looked at the highlighted text in bold while still watching Allen, who proudly moved to the portal.
''Heisel is ready, just in case
But what about Allen?
In order for the Quests conditions to be fulfilled, he needed for his brother to not kill the ancient monster sealed in the ruins by mistake.
Should I ask my brother to join my group? No, I shouldnt.
His older brother deeply cherished him, so he was sure that if he asked him to sacrifice his reputation for him, he would.
A man who turned into a viinous demon contractor for his brothers sake.
That was the kind of character Allen was.
Juliusughed at what seemed to be the obvious oue, right in front of his eyes.
He couldn''t help but wonder what the fragment of truth would reveal.
Chapter 77
Chapter 77
"Nice work!"
"Sir Allen, great job! Im proud to call you our leader.
"Well, that was incredible!!
Allen waved his hand with a humble expression.
"It was nice to be able to see all of your skills, too. Well, I have something I need to do I''ll be on my way."
His team members looked disappointed, but they didn''t think they needed much more from him after having just confirmed his skills in person.
"See youter."
"I look forward to wine tasting with you, Allen."
"If you''re ever curious about healing techniques, please reach out anytime!"
"I''ll see you next time.
Allen let out the sigh hed been holding back once he felt that he was far enough away from his teammates.
"Compared to my own talent, theyre sockluster."
To be more specific, they were each utterly useless.
Ariel could only shoot arrows to and fro without any coordination or prior notice.
Evan, overconfident in his ability, charged in after any moving lifeform he could find.
William nearly passed out from exhaustion after using one healing spell a grand total of one time.
Allen and his mental sanity were exhausted after safelypleting the raid while simultaneously controlling each aspect of their journey.
So, tell me. How did you make it out alive?
''Isn''t it because there was no other choice?''
Allen smiled wryly.
Their individual skills werent necessarily bad. To be more precise, the most urate way of describing them would be to say that they were simply inexperienced.
Excluding William, they were nobles, so they had surely received a great deal of education. Of course, he wouldve appreciated it if they couldve gained a little more experience, ordingly.
However, whatever they tried to adjust their actions in an effort to be more useful always ended up redirecting their blows toward him or someone else in the group. Overall, their presence was more of a detriment than a benefit.
Even assuming no other outside events urred, he was going to need to pay as much attention as possible to his surroundings during the practice-raid if he had to be with them.
Allen walked briskly out of the basement where the simted ruins were being held. He looked up at the sky and saw that the sun was at the highest point in the sky.
Where are you going now? Do you want to go practice your swordy?
''That would be nice, but I haven''t been paying that much attention to practicing magictely.''
Going to the training ground on his own to organize his thoughts and practice training his magic would be justified, but there was a ce he had to stop by first.
What are you up to here?
''You never know what could happen.''
Thus, he arrived at the library.
Located in a separate building on Academy grounds, the library was huge, standing 12-stories high. Allen walked in without dy.
As he entered, a librarian wearing round sses gave a small bow.
Allen looked around with a sense of familiarity, unlike when he first came.
Bookcases were filled to the brim with books, not an empty space to be found. Each was organized by disciplineincluding the humanities, natural sciences, spiritual contracting, engineering, and magical theory.
The sectioned books were the painstaking result of converting the knowledge excavated and received from countless ruins, a representation of the history of work cultivated by those of the Academy thus far.
The library was graced by the scent of old paper to match the calm atmosphere.
It was a ce where one could borrow from a multitude of theoretical books, even sorcery guides.
If ever there were a ce where he could find some method of magic or clue to find his brother, he figured that it would be here.
Allen went straight to the seventh floor, the floor designated for magic books. The walls, maze-like in orientation and awash with knowledge, were demarcated with numerically categorizedbels. Allen looked around and approached a librarian with a familiar face who was organizing books.
"Do you have any new books?"
"What? Oh, Allen, its you." The male librarian smiled and answered with a slightly troubled face. "The book you''re looking for
"Yes, have you received any books about spirits or tracking like we talked aboutst time?"
At Allen''s boration, the librarian smiled bitterly and shook his head. "No, the soul system is rare and particrly understudied, as you know None of our new arrivals are at all rted to the subject.
The librarian continued in an apologetic tone as Allen''s face darkened a little. "If you really want a book in that genre It would probably be faster to try for it at auction or wait for our mass arrivals toe in next quarter. As you may know, the books in the library are just copies."
"Is that so?"
"Oh, of course, there would probably be a way to acquire the type of magic book youre looking for using merits
Afraid that his voice would be too loud, he looked at the students around him before he answered quietly. "As far as I know, youd need about 1,000 merits to locate what it is youre looking for It might be a bit of a challenge.
1,000 merits. It wasn''t as shy of a reward as taking his pick from the Academy''s storage or taking private lessons with one of the Top Eight, but it wouldnt necessarily be a waste of his merits.
"I see Thank you."
"I will tell you immediately if any sort of relevant bookes in."
Allen bowed to him for his consideration, and the librarian waved his hand in apparent dismissal.
"Well then, Im off."
The librarian nodded and continued to organize the books.
As soon as their conversation had concluded, Ves immediately shared her thoughts.
Just wait. You came yesterday, too.
The book could havee in today.
If it was so easy to find, you would have found it already. In the first ce, if the demon took his body, wouldnt he be waiting in hell?
Do you know where hell is?
He had told Ves that his brother had been taken away by the demon and that his original soul had disappeared as a result. In fact, there was no discernable difference except that he was not a demon, but just a different human on the inside.
But this doesn''t solve the problem.
''That''s right.''
Allen walked out of the library with a wry smile.
He had gone to the library several times since arriving at the school. The base of knowledge there was more likely to give him an answer than anywhere else.
That was because the knowledge there was more well-supported than anywhere else.
So, he had stayed up a few nights and searched for books on topics with rted keywords such as souls, space, and tracking
''I didn''t get much from that, though.
Well, he had seeded in learning more about magic. He was able to acquire knowledge that he hadnt known before about the workings of spatial, soul-based, and contractual systems. With that, he began to understand the foundation for a new system of magic that he had been trying to study ever since meeting Linbelle and Inellia.
However, he had found nothing about magic for tracking the movement of souls.
No, it was impossible to find any relevant published theory.
There were already so few books on the spirit system, but even fewer were avable to the public. He couldnt ask for ess to the prohibited books, as they were designated as dark sorcery.
"Ha"
He knew that being impatient wouldn''t solve anything, but it was still frustrating.
He just wanted to know where Juliuss spirit was.
He was so surprised to learn that Julius''s body didnt contain his brothers soul. If it weren''t for the mystery surrounding its current whereabouts, he wouldve yanked the intruders soul from that body.
As Ves continued her thoughts, she spoke in a cautious tone, different from her usual.
Allen, I''m sorry to say this, but If If
The moment of hesitation didnt match her character at all. When Allen looked down toward Ves, her de trembled slightly.
Well, what if his soul hasn''t disappeared somewhere?
She spoke without stopping, perhaps encouraged by Allen''s silence.
As you know, Ive been alive for quite some time now.
A few thousand years Not too long.
But in every instance when Ive seen a demon possess a body, it typically devours the soul it rarely stores the soul away somewhere else.
And the spirits that are taken into custody like that are typically quite special beings Heroes and such And Allen, your brother was
Even if he were an aristocrat, he was still just an ordinary person. Ves hastened to add an extra excuse in response to his silence.
I''m not saying that your brother wasn''t special, but there are very few people who really are considered to be so valuable and demons are picky with that kind of thing so he may no longer be with us and Im not saying that I know that for sure, but I think itd be good to prepare yourself, maybe
"No."
His steps halted. Allen cut off her words, rambling on.
"He must be somewhere. Obviously."
Ves replied, feelingsplex as she was met with his determined resolve. Yeah, of course. Im sure youll find him.
He must be alive. His soul must be somewhere.
Or else, what could that voice have been? The one he heard right beforeing back? Or what was with that sense of dj vu he got during the trials in the Heavenly Forest? His soul had existed before Allens regression. There definitely had to be another reason why his soul couldnt be found afterward. Or so he thought.
It has to be
The shadow that followed under Allen''s feet vanished into the wide expanse of shade.
Even though it was always hovering around his feet.
Allen walked faster than normal for no reason. He couldnt afford to face any setbacks in the dungeon practice-raid.
* * *
* * *
The hidden ruins west of the Academy was the location of exploration that had failed multiple times over. There, the spirits of the rookie mercenaries now exuded the metallic smell of blood.
The ogre-stained floor became messy with dust intermixed with dried blood. Fragments of the broken walls scattered across the piles of bodies.
In the middle of that mess, Heisel murmured softly, "How did he know all this?
"How did he know so much about how this would turn out Cough."
"What''s the problem with that?"
Finishing off a survivor with a quick slice of a neck, he shook off the blood sttered on him.
There were bodies all around them. Dark sorcerers with strange markings on their faces, and witches with wrinkled-covered faces.
Joining them, armed mercenaries were also scattered across the floor, their eyes now void of light. Some of them appeared to be holding the hands of the dark sorcerers.
The forces, once strong enough to overthrow a city, were all decapitated, necks separated from bodies and floor painted red.
Around them stood an altar, the production of which had been halted just before their magic was to be injected in. It began to absorb blood little by little, offering a pathetic glow.
Their magic didnt leak at all thats why I didn''t notice it. So how did Julius find out?
Heisel swung his sword with an emotionless expression. His white mana, the feeling of which did not match his personality at all, formed a halo of swords and fell upon the altar.
Crash!
In an instant, the altar had crumbled into pieces and the magic circle, still in perfect condition to be activated, slowly lost its light.
Are there any more of these going on in other ces? How many are they trying to make?
Heiselughed.
A gate connecting our world to demons.
He didn''t intend to involve himself so deeply until he talked to Julius.
Hed already lost his life once, and he didnt intend to reconnect with them.
He was too worn out.
He had no choice but to live as peacefully as he could in this life. He only came to the Academy for the sake of entertainment and, perhaps, to resolve his little bit of curiosity regarding the descendent of the warrior.
Or that was how it was supposed to go.
Thump.
Heisel crossed the room to where the altar was located and opened a door leading to another secret room.
"I don''t like this."
Light from the outside poured into the dark interior.
Perhaps a result of the light source entering from behind, there were dark shadows cast around their eyes.
"Theres so much to do."
Was it a challenge? Or was it just a coincidence?
There in the room, demons had been tied toboratory benches and neatly dissected. It appeared that the dark sorcerers and the demons hadnt quite been in such a copasetic rtionship as once thought.
Heisels eyes betrayed no emotion. It wasn''t the first time he''d seen a scene like this.
Step, step.
The blood on the floor sloshed between each step.
"If it was their intention to just send the demons that they summoned in here, it would be best to just ignore it
There was no need to interrupt and let them know that he was alive. How long did he suffer before he died? He didnt need to be used again.
Was there really any need to repeat that in this lifetime?
He just wanted to live a leisurely life. He could just look for treasures hed heard of in his previous life and check out the little myths that interested him.
If he ever got tired of that, he thought it would be nice if he could go on a sea expedition.
"You pushed Allen away, yet you have the nerve to hesitate here."
Heisel stopped thinking and turned himself around.
Pause.
Heisel made eye contact with a head which must have been rolling on the floor for a while now.
The owner of the head, who he figured had passed away quite some time ago, seemed to have gone through a lot of hardships. The head wasnt intact, dried up and full of stab wounds.
Heisel resumed his steps again and then squatted in front of the head.
"Well"
When he closed my eyes for a moment, several scenes came to mind. Memories, fading into his consciousness little by little. Images of demons. Of fighting wars, battling with warriors.
Heisel shook his head quickly.
"Ah, why am I thinking about all that again?"
His chin dipped down, and he spat out, "Youre pretty cute, huh."
Heisel grinned.
She was dead now, but she surely wouldve been a beauty in her animate years.
"Your skeleton isn''t bad either. You would have been popr, if you were still alive."
Perhaps because his words were so unexpected, the already dead head seemed to be looking back at him with astonishment in her eyes.
Heisel slowly rose.
"I should go now."
This time, he headed for the exit without stopping. Looking back, he couldn''t distinguish the bodys head from the rest since the light flooding into the interior was so strong.
"Damn"
The settlement that had hidden this little ce had already all but disappeared. He raised his fist high into the air.
I really didn''t want to use this
He had no other option. There was no way to demolish a building like that without using his demonic powers. When he lifted his fist, a huge fist rose, its shadow swallowing the ruins.
"Even in such a dark ce, beauty shines through. But isnt beauty only valuable to the living?
It wasnt like he particrly cared about how the people he knew looked when they were still alive. But it definitely mattered even less when they were already dead.
"If you''re ever born again, have a good one. Please dont try to take revenge on me. Well then
Heisel paused. After chewing over the words a few times, he smiled as if it didn''t matter.
"See ya."
He lowered his fist.
Formation - Scourge of God: gellum Del
The punishment of Heaven fell. A huge fist the size of a meteor struck the ruins. The remains that had withstood time for a good, long while were smashed into pieces within seconds, sucked into a pit of sand.
The resulting sandstorm swept over his face. Heisel stared nkly at the scene and recalled the information Julius had given him.
"One more is supposed to appear a littleter."
It would likely be the day of the dungeon practice-raid.
He didn''t think hed be able to participate in that activity.
He had something else to do.
Chapter 78
Chapter 78
Allen had so far acquired three books.
The ck book: the possessor.
The white book: the regressor.
And the gray book: the reincarnator.
The three books hed obtained after his regression had been incredibly usefulexcept for the gray one that he couldn''t readbut
''The problem is that I don''t know who they are.''
The gray book had no content at the moment.
And it wasnt clear who exactly was associated with the book.
I knew that Heisel was given a human body under unique circumstances.
Yet the book had no reaction.
The gray book had shown no response, adding evidence to the suspicion that Allen''s prediction had totally missed the mark. Therefore, he had no choice but to leave it alone until some special event urred.
The ck book showed the past from Julius''s point of view before his regression.
Its inability to tell the future beyond the present point in time served as a disadvantage, but it still gave him so much help that it offset that minor downside.
Allen turned his head, staring at the final book. Frowning, he slowly recalled the information he knew about it.
The white book described the current series of events from Allen''s point of view.
Originally, it had no significant purpose apart from maintaining a clear record of his memories of the past, so he hadnt really found it particrly useful.
''The first time was at the Spring of Spirits on Mount Nicaea.
While hed been taking the reward meant for Julius to find, the white book had suddenly fluttered about like mad as a phrase popped into his mind.
The book linked to detects ! reacts to !
Although it had already disappeared from the white book, Allen could still vividly recall that sentence.
''And then the next was when I was trapped in the forest with the witch.
The words hade to mind when hed almost fought a boring war of attrition, until hed found the core of the boundary.
Thanks to the white book''s help in finding the nucleus, it had been easy to get out.
The book linked to confirms the conditions. The presence of has been recognized! The target associated with is nearby! Please eliminate the !
The conditions have been met. (tentative name) is manifested!
Three steps to the right. Two steps back. A shock wave reaching up to 400 meters within eight seconds.
This, too, had been erased, so it only existed in Allen''s memory.
Thest time that information had appeared was during the earthquake when he was eating with Heisel.
The book linked to detects danger in ! reacts to !
That sentence hadnt disappeared, still remaining in the white book.
''What does this all mean?''
Allen''s eyes unfocused as he sank into deep thought.
Since the earthquake, Allen had been trying to guess the meaning behind those censored words, or just any clues at all about what the phrases meant.
The book was out of the ordinary, even to Allen, who had broadened his horizons of imagination to epass even the unimaginable. Magic, too, was a foreign entity that twisted and mangled with the harmony of the world. The imagination of a sorcerer was the driving force behind the manifestation of that which could not typically exist within reality.
Allen tried to draw the most usible conclusions based on past memories. Why was this happening?
''The force that gave me this white book and ess to its abilities It must want something.
Once hed established a thesis for his thoughts to ruminate over, theories arose in his mind, sprouting off that foundation like branches from a tree.
In the white book, there is always a "book linked to " Thats always the opening line.
Allen thought that was some kind of demon or something with simr power or knowledge.
He suspected that the person who sent him back couldnt have done so heedlessly, so he hypothesized that the notification itself was a kind of instruction.
''I think it''d be more reasonable to give direct instructions rather than coded messages like that, but
He couldnt make any reasonable guess about the intentions of demons. No, he doubted whether it was even the doing of a demon in the first ce, but that wasnt the topic of his meanderings at the moment.
It couldve been by the hand of a demon, or perhaps the mercy of a god. In any case, the regression had already taken ce and could not be reversed.
In that case, he should just use it.
Until the time came when he would have to pay the price for regression.
Allen thought there had to be meaning in the periodic appearance of the white book. That was a given.
Then what was its purpose in doing that?
Why would they warn me of the dangers toe? They must want me to be prepared.
Danger always apanied by a forewarning was generally rted to the actions of dark sorcerers or demons.
After that introductory phrase, there was always a saying in the middle of the sentence that something had been sensed.
detects !
s presence is known!
detects danger in !
Even when he found the core of the barrier, this sentence appeared:
The target associated with is nearby! They want to stop !
At that time, the only thing he thought could be "the target associated with " was the witch belonging to the dark sorcerer group Estedor.
The general goal for dark sorcerers was to create disasters, and ultimately
''To try to summon the Demon King.
If so, could be assumed to be referring to the Demon King.
He didnt know why they would want to summon the devil. But it was clear that they were trying to achieve it at all costs.
And because of all of the violent behavior associated with that, he kept running into Julius.
Thinking in that same line of reasoning, the white book must have been trying to outline what it wanted from Allen.
The white book wanted Allen to defeat the Demon King and his evil forces.
Of course, that theory may be incorrect.
In the first ce, the meaning of may differ between sentences, and any guesses that served as the basis for that conclusion were also just mini-hypotheses within his overarching one.
''I don''t know why the words first started to appear at the Spring of Spirits.
The same was true of the situation in the forest.
Did the white book only feel the need to help him when witches were in his proximity?
If so, shouldn''t it have helped him out in the case of Chimera sorcerer, the first person hed encountered rted to Estedor?
His hypothesis doesnt hold up when considering theck of response in the Heavenly Forest, an event that happened after his first interaction with the book.
Apparently the god in question there had been corrupted by dark sorcerers, so how could the book, under the running hypothesis, have had nothing to say?
Could it have been rted to Julius? If it was rted to something about Julius from before the regression, how could he find amon thread between all of the situations
''There is too little information.
He stopped grasping for straws.
In the absence of any real evidence, hasty judgment would only mess with his head.
But it was still important to do this.
When the most recent sentence had appeared, unlike the previous two times in which the words had disappeared immediately, it remained intact on the page.
''If I find something in this dungeon practice-raid rted to dark sorcerers, demons, or the Demon King himself
Perhaps hed be able to fill the gaps in the fragments of clues.
* * *
* * *
"William, did you get any sleep? Ariel asked with a concerned look.
On the morning of their departure for the dungeon, William was reading a book with bloodshot eyes, indicating that he might not have slept at all.
I just can''t sleep when I''m nervous I''d rather read a book instead
Turning his head, Allen took in William with dark eyes. He seemed even more anxious, too tired to properly estimate the danger of the ruins.
''It''ll take a few days to get there, so hell get some sleep at some point.
It was the sort of situation where theyd be in transport for a good deal of time, but one could make what they wished of the journey. If they got hit by a boring sandstorm or something, they could catch up on sleep then.
"How about you, Evan? Are you as nervous as William?
"I-I''m not nervous at all. I-I would even say I''m rather looking f-forward to it."
"Really?"
"Yes!"
Allen smirked. He wouldn''t have been this nervous if it were just any ordinary ruins. There was no particr reason to be anxious, at least as far as they knew.
Megaruins were several timesrger than any ordinary ruins, rife with hideous tales worthy of its qualifier.
A ce where the ghosts of people long passed floated around while monsters slept deep within its catbs. Where colleagues right beside oneself could disappear if they escaped line of sight for even a moment.
Most of the tales were just superstitions spread through word of mouth among mercenaries, but many actually believed them.
"How about you, Allen?"
"You know me."
Ariels eyes sparkled as if they were hiding some secret. "Yes. Compared to the others, Allen seems so calm."
"Its just practice, anyway. If it were really dangerous, the Academy would take care of us," Allen replied, shrugging his shoulders as if he had nothing to say.
"Ah."
"And the upperssmen will be there, too. If you''re really worried, we can just ask them for help."
"Really?"
When he turned to meet their gazes shifting toward him, he saw Evan and William ncing toward him, but pretending not to. Knowing they would surely toss and turn all night if he didnt, Allen began to ry to them the information he had heard from Rachael.
"I''ve been told I''ve heard that right before we enter, well be given an artifact that can help us escape instantaneously."
"Oh!!"
Evan jumped to his feet and cheered. When Evan noticed that he was being judged for that action, he gave a little cough and sat back down in his ce.
"Hmmm, it''d be all right if we didnt have that kind of thing, but ahem, for the Academy to look out for its students like I couldn''t resist.
The corners of his mouth soared upward, contradicting his assertion. William yawned loudly, as if Allen''s words had relieved him a little.
"Ha That''s a relief But Allen, how did you get that information?
"My fiance told me.
"Oh." At Allen''s simple answer, William nodded, seeming to recall the rumor.
"I''m d we have so much support The upperssmen in my club didnt tell me though
"Same for me. I guess they thought it was funny to not let us know.
"I mean, you only go in blind once, right?" Ariel responded with sympathy to William''s somber words.
William nodded at Evan''s response.
"If thats all true, then I feel like the rtionship I had with my upperssmen has been fake all along.
People are people wherever you go, I guess, Ariel said, seeing everyone more rxed than before. Her eyes were set on Allen.
"In that sense, I''m lucky to have Allen on my team"
"I agree.
"You''re also the second in the ss I''m rather worried that we''ll be a burden as colleagues."
Evan agreed, and William wiped away his sweat with a handkerchief as if he was nervous still.
"If you just do as you practiced, it won''t be a problem. You know, I was worried too that I might have been burdened just because of my ss rank."
"Oh, Allen, youve given us too much already.
"That''s right! You didn''t even try to take advantage of me for being amoner
When Evan coughed to catch Williams attention, William hurriedly corrected his words.
"Oh, well, not that there are others who do."
"I mean, as long as you know.
"Haha"
Ariel smiled at William''s repeated apologies.
A lively conversation between themoner and aristocratthe atmosphere was so different from before that Allen couldnt even recognize it.
"Yes, well everything is all good as long as youre good. Let''s do our best.
He felt the difference even within himself.
I didn''t mean to get to be thisfortable with them.
They had met up a few times since the practice session, and eventually, their rtionship had changed to the point where they even asked each other personal questions. Even theirnguage had clearly changed from when they had first met.
But unlike the rest of the team, Allen hadnt been entirely sincere in his rtionships with them.
Even so
"Colleagues"
It didn''t feel so bad.
* * *
There were 36 applicants from the sophomore and junior sses and 141 freshmen, plus 15 professors and assistants who apanied them. With them was a procession of hundreds of people, including camels and horses to lead the carriages, horseman to lead the horses, and porters as well.
Julius stood at the end of that long procession.
Yellow, yellow-green, orangish-yellow, yellow, yellow, green
Julius opened his eyes, overworking his Iridescent Eye for the first time in a long while.
However, it didn''t turn out as well as hed hoped.
Sure enough, there weren''t any side characters talented enough to appear in the novel.
It was the expected result, but he was still disappointed.
He couldnt believe there was nobody of use. The yellow people still possessed the talent of a brilliant genius. If it were his first time using the skill, he wouldve been grateful to be surrounded by that crowd.
But
I guess its best for them to be rare.
At this point, he thought it would be better not to expect anything from other side characters, excluding the original characters from the novel.
That way, he wouldnt have to spend more effort worrying about how to lessen the damage done to the Academy.
The enemy that he was to face at the end of the original story was the Demon King himself. Gathering a few geniuses was more efficient than lugging around dozens of budding talents.
''If it hadn''t been for that shit, the ending wouldn''t have sucked so bad.
He was, of course, going to prevent the story from following the originals plotline. That said, he didnt know what the future would hold, so he had to procure the power to deal with the Demon King in advance.
If he could gather enough powerful forces together, he wouldn''t even need Heisel
"No, no, that''s not it."
"What''s not it?"
Julius took a few steps back, looking shocked, like he had been caught in the midst of a bad idea.
"Why are you so surprised, did you have an unpleasant thought? Like abandoning Dongdong?!?
Gyaho! Gyaho! Gyaho!
Dongdong looked at him struggling, to see if he was surprised. Julius smiled at Aveline, who wore a yful expression.
"There''s no way I would ever do that. Dongdong, leave your terrible friend behind and y with me instead.
Gyaho, gyaho.
Julius took the bundle of fur from her arms and held it within his own. The fluffy texture of its fur made him feel better.
''This would make such a nice scarf.
He stroked Dongdong, who was shaking in his arms, perhaps sensing his morbid intentions.
He watched as students stuffed themselves into the carriages by their assigned groups. He stared nkly at the scene, but was roused by Mattias''s voice.
"Come on, Julius. Its our turn."
"Oh, sorry."
Julius quickly hopped onto the carriage and slowly went over the n.
I have to earn a lot of merits in this practice-raid somehow.
He had until the end of his freshman year.
For some reason, there was no attack by Cirction.
Perhaps due to the butterfly effect or some other reason, the story of the original novel had changed. That ruined his n to collect a truckload of merits.
All that was left for him to do was what he could aplish on his own.
Unlike what his family had in possession, the items he could take from the Academy''s storehouse looked absolutely extraordinary. He knew he needed to work as quickly as possible, before anyone else could take them.
Thus
''I need to stand out.
In this event alone, he could get 100, or even 1,000 merits.
He had to get himself into that storehouse before the student body President.
Even if it had toe with some sacrifices, it had to be done.
Because there were no more freshmen that could be useful to him.
Julius grinned at the thought of what he might find there.
In that smile, there wasnt even a single ounce of guilt.
Chapter 79
Chapter 79
The procession headed for their destination.
Nothing significant urred along their journey from the Academy.
The typical batch of monsters had tried to attack, only to die by the hands of protective professors. Perhaps due to the number of people in the party, or perhaps because of the prestige associated with the Academy''s name, no bandits appeared.
Nothing happened on the first night after leaving the Academy, apart from the addition of one new team member.
"Hello, hello. Nice to meet yall."
Milred Pseudos.
An upperssmana juniorwho joined Allen''s group for the dungeon practice-raid and a member of the student council he met alongside the second heir to the empire.
"This is our first time meeting, right? Lookin forward to workin with yall."
She wore a rxed expression, magenta hair, and a general air of friendliness.
Allen turned his head to look at the crew, who were concentrating on her story.
"Does everyone know about the history of the Academy?
The location of Galshdin Academy was quite special, but not in the sense that the Holy Sword was kept in the city or that relics from the ruins were constantly flowing in. The reason was even more direct, stemming from the brutal desert environment surrounding the vicinity of the Holy Sword.
The desert terrain was a harsh one to traverse. In particr, it was said that the Great Desert, one of thergest magical sites, was more vicious than any ordinary desert.
From the scorching midday sun to the biting chill of a night on the sand, there were countless monsters that could appear at any time from out of nowhere and traps that remained buried in the sand.
The sandstorms blowing about at random periods were an added bonus, too.
Varying by dozens of degrees, the temperatures of the day and of the night were difficult for ordinary soldiers to withstand, and mercenaries working in the desert had to purchase expensive artifacts worth several gold pieces to ovee the conditions.
Exploring the Great Desert to any meaningful extent required taking on a lot of risk.
Surrounded by such an environment, Elpis served as a fortress within the desert.
"But yknow there are still idiots out there, right?
In the past, there had been several attacks on the Academy.
"There was once a group of merchants who were unhappy with their monopoly on artifacts This other time, there was an aristocrat who was dissatisfied with his childs treatment at the Academy, and then another time, a greedy king of some derelict country"
However, their attacks did not seed.
Not even once.
"As far as I know, the Academy has never needed to mount a serious response to any threat."
There was never any motion to gather soldiers, let alone any official statements released.
"Then what about the people who tried to attack the Academy?
Milred stood in front of Evan, who was concentrating on the story, and smiled strangely at his question. "What do ya think happened?
"I''ve never heard of Elpis being attacked
They all failed.
Those who tried to demolish the Academy had rushed in with hopethe namesake of its citylike moths to a me. And that hope of theirs had withered away to ash.
"That''s how the Academy came to be in the present day.
"The environment of the Great Desert itself became a natural border And that''s how our racially and socially intermixedmunity came to be.
No empire could invade, nor could any aristocrat wield power.
However, the Academy held tremendous influence through its possession of excavated artifacts.
Even then, it would be correct to say that though the Academys prestige was unable to be swayed by any one country or race, half of it was developed as a result of the schools special geographical location and its possession of the Holy Sword.
"That''s right, you''re pretty bright, William.
She patted Williams head, as if hed done well.
In less than a few hours, she had naturally integrated herself into the party.
"Th-thank you!" William blushed, slightly ashamed.
Next to him, Ariel opened her mouth with a hint of uncertainty. "Then does that mean the student council President being amoner doesnt have a solely symbolic meaning? And that he actually has real skill?
"That''s right, too! The President is a real monster, yknow? If I pat your head, I''ll ruin your hair Would ya like a snack instead?
Ariel was biting into a crispy cookie before she could refuse. She mumbled through the snack in her mouth. "Weph, I
"Oh, Evan, do ya want some snacks, too?"
"No, I
Evan shook his head in an apparent no, but the snack flew into his mouth faster than he could articte that sentiment.
"Isn''t it good?"
"Yes."
Given the faint expression of satisfaction on Evan''s face, it appeared as though he didnt dislike it at the very least.
Having quieted Evan in an instant, Milred turned to Allen, the only one left who had not intervened in the situation.
"Do ya want one, Allen?
"I''m alright."
"I heard ya helped me by listening to the Vice President. Ill peel an apple, just for ya.
She took the apple out of her inventory and smiled knowingly. Allen waved his hand to refuse.
"It''s really alright. Instead, I''d like to ask you a few questions, would you mind?"
She became sullen, putting the apple back in.
"Well, if ya really dont want one But, yeah! Ask away! I''ll exin everything that I can!"
Her personality had suddenly changed to be more lively once more. Thinking it was quite erratic, Allen asked the question in his mind.
"So is it true that youre joining our group?"
"That''s right!"
"Only sophomores could apply for the practice-raid, right?"
She wagged her index finger and shook her head.
"No, no, considering the difficulty of this site, they allowed juniors to apply as well this time. Ya didn''t know?
When she turned her attention toward the others, everyone shook their heads with faces that said that they had never heard of the topic at all.
"Nobody told me either."
"Even the upperssmen in my club didn''t say much
"Huh? Really? The student council definitely asked the chairman for approval, but um
She tilted her head as she tapped her lips with her index finger.
Oh! That''s why there were only applications open for sophomores. I thought it was an exchange thing.
"Exchange?"
"Oh. I guess the freshmen still wouldn''t know. The Academy has an annual exchange with the magic towers.
"I think I mightve heard something about it from my sister. No, that''s not the point."
Ariel reversed the story of the exchange by being straightforward and asking, "Then, as a junior who applied just now, Milred Pseu
"Just call me Milred!"
"Alright, is there anyone else apart from you?
"Not really probably only a few people from the student council applied, though.
At her answer, William asked her a question in a trembling voice Maybe his anxiety had returned.
"Well, isn''t that dangerous?"
"Perhaps She looked out the window of the carriage and smiled. "But that won''t happen. Not ever."
"What!? Did you receive any confidential information from the student council?
"It''s just my maternal instinct," Milred replied with anguid smile again.
"No, what does that mean?
William''s weak voice did not stop her from smiling. "It''s okay! It''s okay! It''s not the first time I''ve been in a megaruins! So don''t worry!
"That''s veryforting."
"Right?"
Her cheerfulness rxed their party.
Allen squinted at her.
No one else seemed to notice, but Allen could see.
The fact that her gaze instantlynded upon one specific carriage in the procession.
Allens five senses had been honed more keenly than before. What would be a fleeting moment for others would be more than enough time for Allen to see exactly where she was looking.
''If nothing too disruptive happens, this safety device should be enough''
Feeling the waves of energy that engulfed the entire area, Allen loosened the tension in his body that had been wound tight ever since arriving at the Academy.
Their destination began to draw near.
* * *
* * *
"Are you okay?"
"Im alright."
"If you don''t like the food
"It''s edible, Im fine."
If you want to get something else
"I''ll take care of it, so get out of here."
Jaqnelle looked at the people leaving the wagon with a sad face. All of them were Academy professors in a hurry to make conversation with him.
He shook his head with a wry smile.
The Top Eight.
It sounded like something grand, but it was all just a show.
Jaqnelle knew that there were many strong people hiding out there somewhere, outside of those eight, and that their skills were only just one step ahead of the masses.
He had earned his position in the Top Eight because he knew that his opponent, the former member, was weak in a battle of attrition.
If it weren''t for that, he would have fought a much more even battle, in which he surely wouldve lost.
"I didn''t even mean to end up at the Academy.
Jaqnelle sank into thought, leaving himself lost in his own mind within the swaying carriage.
Heaven''s Shield.
The youngest of the Top Eight.
Thest wielder of now-lost sacred magic.
And
"the heir to a fallen throne."
Not many people knew this aspect of his identity.
The world was too caught up in its own affairs to remember the sessor of a country that had copsed more than a hundred years ago.
Thus, there were only a few people who knew of his other status after bing a member of the Top Eight.
Obviously.
There was a saying that nothing escaped the touch of timeeven mountains and rivers changed every ten years. And a hundred years had passed.
That was enough time for those who were once small children to die and return to dust.
That said, there were some things that were not forgotten, their legacy living on. Even if that legacy was nothing but a useless, wandering thought.
Jaqnelle remembered his father in his childhood.
''You must take revenge.
On who?
''Those bastards at the Academy, of course.
Why?
Didn''t they destroy our country?!
Even his father, who had dered such venom against his foes, had never even experienced that age. He longed for times hed never experienced and obsessed over revenge, grieving the copse of a country hed never had the chance to witness.
Nevertheless, Jaqnelle received those instructions, and his familys motivationbined with some talent and luck allowed him to climb the ranks of the Top Eight.
After that, he was invited to the Academy and took over the position as the Guardian of the city
''Ive cut off my family and connections.
Because hed expanded his horizons.
Having spent his whole life trying to achieve his family''s goals, he only realized the uselessness of doing so aftering to the Academy.
After spending months there, hed arrived at that moment.
"Phew, I have to do my job."
Perhaps because he was too busy to think it through earlier, his mind was racing with thoughts.
Jaqnelle closed his eyes and slowly heightened his senses.
Students wouldn''t be able to notice him sensing around at theirparatively elementary level.
Some of them were good enough for him to want to watch out for
But they''re still just students.
100 meters, 200 meters, 300 meters
Gradually expanding his scope and exploring the area thoroughly, he raised his eyebrows.
"Hmm?"
At the edge of his range of detection, he had caught something that disappeared in an instant.
"Was I mistaken?"
* * *
Several kilometers away from the procession of wagons, a mysterious woman stared at the carriage where Jaqunelle was sitting with a smile on her face.
"Master Bjorna, why don''t we move back a bit The man sitting next to her looked at her, sweating profusely. "If we get any closer, he may notice."
She ignored what he said. The man added more, careful of her attitude.
If we dont move ording to the n, your work might be set back somewhat Cough.
"I know, I know Why are you so naggy?"
"Sorry, I''m sorry
"Shut up. I''ll take care of it."
He wet his pants in fear of losing his life, and stepped back with his face deathly pale.
"For those already ruined to be so prideful Tsk."
She knew, too.
That she had to step down now.
ording to the information they had extracted from the Academy, therge megaruins site was about to change.
It was just amazing where one could find such information nowadays.
Although it was already ruined, she spected about the possibility of exploiting its remaining potential.
"And yet ah, what a waste."
It was a three-year-old grudge.
Even though she would soon be able to resolve her grudge in a few days'' time, it wasnt easy to contain herself.
"But, soon enough.
It wouldnt be long now.
There was much more to the ruins than the parts that had already been revealed.
Therefore, it wouldnt be too imusible for any of the Top Eight to lose their lives to a particrly unexpected and treacherous trap waiting within.
She hid herself from the intangible waves that felt around the surrounding area. Soon, his senses swept through the area once more.
Two days remained before their arrival at the megaruins.
Chapter 80
Chapter 80
Five dayster, they arrived at the megaruins, its entrance crowded with mercenaries and merchants. From the very second they arrived, the students all felt their eyes drawn to the spires emerging from the ground.
Instead of going straight to a makeshift camp, the professors let them rest in a new camp prepared next to it, where they assigned guides. Most of the groups randomly chose their guides, but some people appeared to already be acquaintances, as if they had coordinated in advance.
Allen was one such case.
"It''s been a long time, Allen."
"Alexius, its good to see you."
Allen joined Alexius, who had been waiting for him as theyd arranged in their letters.
Looking back in Juliuss direction, he saw Erini greeting others with her spider legs waving about.
After all the guides were assigned, they received a rough run-down of the ruins. Following a refresher on the general precautions and goals they had been told already in ss, they were able to enter only upon receiving a mapbeled with the locations of emergency escape items.
Several hours passed before they were able to begin searching the ruins in earnest.
"Evan! You''ve gone too far. Step back!
"Ah okay!"
About to charge recklessly until Allen''s order, Evan flinched and stepped back.
A spear flew through the air just as his body stopped, but Evan skillfully struck the spear away and continued defending their front.
Then Allen eximed, "Ariel, now!"
"Okay!"
Ariel''s eyes turned green as she swiftly shot an arrow. Three arrows flew in a row, passing overhead and falling off at a nearly impossible angle.
Shoooom!
The arrow went straight through the heart of a ghoul that Evan was trying to defend himself against, and hit the head of a sandman looking for an opening to strike.
Skreeeee!!!!
The ghoul, angered by its poor treatment, pushed ahead with a groan. It wasnt alone now, there was a total of three of them.
The students might have been able toe to Evans aid for now due to their position in the narrow passageway, but as time went on, his situation would be increasingly dangerous.
"Ugh! A-Allen, there''s still a long way to go! Ugh!" Evan shouted, twisting his head. A blue spell enveloped him, and in a moment his speed increased several fold.
Whoosh!
The tip of a spear brushed by his head.
Evan raised his shield, expression engulfed in an emotion that couldve been either excitement or fear.
ng!
The ghouls head fell back at the clear sound. Evan swung his sword vigorously while his opponent was stunned.
ng!
The creature staggered back a few steps, the impact catching all three ghouls due to the small width of the narrow passage. Nevertheless, their foes were not alive, so they couldnt be fully rid of them until their core was obliterated.
However, that was enough.
"Evan!"
From the outset, Evan''s goal was not to deal with those monsters.
Finally!"
Evan backed off, following a tactic he''d over-practiced in the simted remains.
As Allen beckoned, his threads became entangled on themselves, and a yellow-blue horn appeared. Allen grabbed the horn and took a deep breath. A green me burst to life as the living dead screamed out.
Graaaaahhh!
As the three bodies of empty armor charged towards him, Evan finally retreated.
''Scream of corruption.''
Bu-doon!
A heavy, low-pitched whirlwind struck the dead. The strong gusts of wind whipped straight through them, with no powerful destructive sound in apaniment. With that, it was over.
Fwoosh.
The sets of armor began to oxidize and soon broke down with a rusty creak.
Their battle had concluded.
"Whoa, it''s finally over."
Ariel rxed her hands and moved to retrieve her fallen arrows. Even if she had more in her inventory, the arrows were consumable, and it would be best to save them whenever possible.
"Are you hurt at all?"
William ran toward Evan, who greeted him with an indifferent face.
"You don''t have to worry. This is only a warm-up."
"Ha, ha. Okay whatever you say
William looked at his body with a forcedugh, and sighed with relief when he found that there were no wounds.
Ves, who was watching him, quivered slightly and asked, If you just used your strength, you wouldnt have to deal with all this, would you?
''If I did that, then thered be no point in being in a group at all.
Uh, but I want to get in on some of the action, too. You haven''t even used a sword at alltely.
''What am I supposed to do about that?''
Ves kept wriggling at his waist like her body was aching. It was understandable that he hadnt been able to use his sword, though, since hed been stuck at the Academy.
Allen, however, nned to act as a team yer for the duration of the practice raid.
Or at least until hed finalized his hypothesis that it had something to do with dark sorcerers or the Demon King himself.
"Wow! I don''t think I have anything to say this time either!
p, p, p.
Approaching with pping hands, Milred praised the group with a twinkle in her eyes.
"Evan, you tend to be a bit too aggressive, but you followed instructions well Yeah, yeah, that was good. And Ariel, you made quite a few missteps, but you did pretty well overall. William, you were also up to standard. And not to mention Allen
She turned her head with a look full of curiosity and anticipation.
"The magic ya used just now. It wasnt time maniption, was it?
"Im afraid not, Allen said tly.
Magic for time maniption didnt exist.
Schrly opinions were still divided on this matter. Allen, however, was more inclined to the hypothesis that time maniption was only a reframing of changes in matter.
Young and aged, new and old, life and death.
If theposition of a child did not change such that they could not grow, and if, simrly, things didnt age for eternity, then what was the difference between that and time stopping?
Time was apanied by change.
Conversely, the passage of time couldnt be proven if there was no evidence of physical change.
It was because of this premise that Allen did not believe in the possibility of regression at first.
Things could objectively be old, but they could not reconfigure to be new once more.
"It''s just the oxidation of iron."
"Thats it? She nodded sullenly.
Acquiring this magic was one of the achievements hed made by stopping by the library.
Making things that would eventually happen, happenthat was a brief summation of the inspiration that had been whirling around in his head since hed first met Inellia and Linbelle.
However, there were numerous prerequisites for using this magic: the future of the subject had to be almost entirely set in stone, it couldnt be used on organisms, and it consumed a great deal of mana. Lastly, its applications were limited.
Even so, Allen had figured that such rules would be in ce if time-based magic were to exist.
There was, of course, a mountain or two to hurdle over before he could dub such magic time-based.
* * *
* * *
"Are you all finished now?"
"Ah, Alexius. Did you collect all that by yourself?"
Alexius came up to them with a leather bag overflowing with materials. His scorpion tail wagged in response.
"I didn''t do it alone. Ariel helped me."
"It wasnt that difficult."
She gave a quick smile then asked them with a serious face, "So Allen, what do you think we should do?"
Ariel lifted up the map that they had been given just before entering the ruins, high enough for everyone to see.
The surface of the ckened map had gradually been revealed as the party moved along and covered ground.
However, less than 10% of the map had been revealed as of yet.
"We''re just at the beginning of these ruins. The only thing that matters is that were still on the first floor. But Evan is already tired
"No, Im fine
"Evan."
"Hmm, I think itd be good to rest a little.
I still have a good deal of mana left. William, you dont have much physical strength left at all, but you havent spoken up?
William''s face flushed red, perhaps ashamed of thement, but no one could say anything to him as the one in charge of the partys medical care.
"So, you make the choice."
"Whether we retreat or go further?"
"Yes, that''s right. Your score will be higher if you reveal more parts of the map. I, personally, would like to go further, but it''s also only the first day."
Ariel looked at Milred,menting from a distance.
"If we need to ask for help from our lovely older sister here, it wouldnt look very good on our evaluation.
"That''s right! So choose carefully. I can share my knowledge on this and that to help, but direct intervention will require docking some points!"
Allen was lost in thought.
What should they do? Theyd already fought dozens of battles. In other words, they had surely gained enough experience.
Even if they hadnt tested themselves against the strong traps or guard monsters yetthey were only in the earlier passages of the ruins still, after alltheyd already been in this ce for most of the day.
Milred still seemed unwilling to intervene in their decision. This would all go into their evaluation.
''We need rest more than we need inefficient progress.
Allen made his decision and opened his mouth.
"Lets go back."
"Phew."
Ariel was relieved, desperate for a break.
Milred supported his decision with a broad smile.
"Good job! If you''re not sure, then it''s better to take a breather, Allen!"
"Then lets take the nearest exit."
Alexius studied the map for a moment and found a way out before long, moving for it immediately. The party quickly followed after him.
William was pleased by the promise of a break.
Hah hah Im really gonna have to focus more on building physical strength when we get back haha.
"I''ll help you out then."
"Th-that''s all right.
"Don''t back out now.
William''s face paled slightly at Evan''s words.
Thus, the group left the ruins in much more of a rush than when theyd first entered.
* * *
In the hour marked by the setting sun, when both the scarlet dusk and the pale moon floated together in harmony in the sky, a disturbance arose near the entrance of the ruins.
"How do you intend to take responsibility for this! I followed you and got eliminated on the first day! What would your family say if they knew? Ah, this is ridiculous!
"No, sir, didn''t they tell you that my role was only to provide information gathered by the advance team?"
"You little fucker
"Are you ignoring the guild?
Perhaps the adventurer was a guide sent from a guild, but as he protested the unfair scrutiny, the aristocratic students burst intoughter, as if it was the first time they had been treated like this.
"Did you just talk back to me? How dare you!"
"Sir, why would you lie when you were the one that chose to make a contract through the guild?
Judging by the way he spoke, he seemed to be really upset.
"You dumb little shit trying to pull one over my family
"Is that the only insult you know, calling someone a traitor against your family? If you have something more to say, take it to the guild. I''ve already submitted the video recording to both the guild and the Academy."
"Y-you!"
The male student''s face boiled red as if he were going to explode, realizing that his authority would not be treated asw here as it usually was.
Sensing the scornful gazes around him, the guide quickly made his way through the crowd.
"Allen, what are you looking at?"
Allen looked back to see William approaching him timidly, feeling a little awkward about addressing him so informally.
"That''s"
"It appears that some people have already been eliminated."
Eyes wide with disbelief, William asked back, "Are you saying theyre out already?"
Allen shrugged his shoulders and resumed his hike again. William walked along beside him.
"There will always be people who are greedy. It seems that he was from the advance team, the one with the guides took a look at the ruins beforehand. From what I can see, it didnt really matter whether the student was greedy or the guide leaked the information. They went too far too quickly and couldnt handle it.
"Oh" William looked puzzled. "It''s still just the first day, so why
"Greed and ability arent necessarily proportional."
This wasnt just any ordinary ruins site, but a super-massive one.
Under normal circumstances, they might have gotten away with their growing greed, as the quality of the artifacts excavated improved the further in they progressed. Plus, they would get higher grades if they delved deeper.
However, these weren''t any ordinary ruins.
Unlike most ruins, in which the explorers only need to prove they possessed the expertise necessary to defeat the guardian, these megaruins had several more factors ying into the level of difficulty.
Between the hordes of monsters filling every corner of its huge size, the increased number of guardians wandering around the ruins, and the trapsid out everywhere Not to mention what went beyond the physical into the mental obstacles that could only be ovee by testing ones knowledge in order to enter specific rooms or areas.
If an explorer happened to get caught in a trap that they didnt understand the principle behind, they could find themself in real deep shit.
"Wow, I find myself getting more and more shocked by the day. I thought aristocrats were supposed to be above all this," William murmured, his expression hard to read.
He looked at Allen and hurried toe up with a quick excuse. "B-but Allen, Evan, and Ariel, you are all shocking for good reasons."
There had to be some unspoken meaning to his words. It was only natural that all kinds of things would be said about the aristocracy.
So Allen didn''t answer, just smirked and kept walking.
Noticing that Allen didnt seem all that offended, William wandered off to be by himself, seemingly lost in thought.
The sunset struggled to breathe life into its fading light, dyeing the western horizon red.
Their first day at the ruins wasing to an end.
Chapter 81
Chapter 81
Morning dawned on the second day of the two-week dungeon practice-raid.
Hundreds of students, guides, and merchants looking for good deals congregated by the four spires leading to the entrance of the ruins.
Allen''s group gathered early in the morning, just as the other students had.
A creeping exhaustion was stered on the faces of those gathering.
Understandably, they couldn''t be rid of their fatigue in just one night. They werent used to sleeping in the terrain; the inability to freshen themselves up proved inconvenient; even the meals were disappointing.
Taken together, it was all too much, and they were unable to fully recover from the fatigue theyd built up the day prior.
Yet this, still, was also a problem they would have to ovee.
What would they do if the Demon King were to suddenly reappear? Or from an even more practical standpoint, undertaking the ruins before them wasnt nearly as much of a hassle as it could have been.
Dungeon practice was undoubtedly essential for whaty ahead in the future.
Otherwise, the Academy would be no better than a glorified social club.
Though, there was an argument to be made there.
"Alright, lets go."
When it was their turn to enter once again, the team went through the entrance in the middle of the pointed spire.
Upon entering through the holewhich had actually been made by breaking through the spire itselfthey found a staircase spiraling up and down. There, they saw the students who had entered before them heading downward, and in between, a ball of light.
There wouldn''t be any danger until theyd descended.
Allen used that brief span of time to gather the attention of his party and go over their n.
"Would you mind giving me your attention for a moment?"
As their eyes focused on Allen, he addressed Alexius, who was leading the way.
"Alexius, could you tell me the information you learned from joining the advance team?"
"Yes, I had no intention of hiding it, anyway."
Alexius willinglyplied, having intended on helping Allen from the beginning. He began with anticipation hidden deep in his eyes.
"First of all, the megaruins consist of seven stories."
Seven floors?"
"It''s deeper than I thought."
Evan''s voice dropped, as if he couldve never imagined it.
Ariel seemed worried about the unexpected scale of their expedition.
"Th-there has to be a mistake. This cant be right
When William stammered, Alexius shook his head.
"No, it is correct. There are indeed seven stories. I didn''t confirm it myself, but the Academy''s advance team did."
His assured answer silenced the party. He couldn''t be lying if the Academy itself had confirmed the information.
They only had two weeks for their dungeon training. It would be almost impossible to clear such arge-scale megasite.
"I think that this is why they didn''t tell you the information
Ariel grabbed her throbbing forehead, as if she had a headache.
Haha I thought telling us was just to psyche us out but I guess they just thought itd be useless for us to know.
"That''s why you were so keen to overwork yourselves yesterday. Considering the scale of your mission, it was a matter of urgency."
Evan burst intoughter at the absurdity of it all, and William murmured quietly, seeming to realize why there had been so many dropouts yesterday. Perhaps, even, why the rate of participation among upperssmen was so low.
The upperssmen had already experienced this and they knew that freshmen would attempt to clear impossibly difficult ruins during the dungeon practice-raid.
"Then what should we do? William asked in a feeble voice.
Milred, who was watching the situation from behind, intervened.
"Come on! What are you all talking about! Are you going to give up like this? If you give up now, your grades will sink into the abyss."
"But"
"But nothing! Did the professors tell you to be so on us like this?
"I" Ariel blurted out.
When she trailed off, Milred responded, "No, I just want to see you do your best! I''m here to help you do that, or
Milred hit the nail on the head with a smile.
"Did you really think you could deal with everything on your own?"
They all flinched.
Evan shivered as if hed been thinking just that.
"In that case, if you dont need the upperssmen, then why do you need the Academy at all? The Academy exists to nurture and train you by giving you the wisdom and experience to ovee the many risks youll face.
Her theoretical spiel forced the party to nod silently.
"So then"
She smiled at Allen, who had taken a step back and was watching, like always.
"Now! Shall we hear what our leader has decided?
Milred looked at Allen as if he knew everything, and the other members of the team followed suit.
"Didnt you hold back because you wereing up with a n?"
"Well, yes."
Allen replied with a bitter smile, as if it couldnt be helped.
"Youre right."
Allen''s gaze ran across the steps of the spire, down toward its basement.
"There''s a way for us to get enough points.
* * *
Selecting the ruins for the Academy''s first dungeon practice-raid of the year was a simple process.
It must be too difficult for freshmen to handle, and it must be a ce where they could gain meaningful experiences for their future endeavors.
If a site under consideration met those two prerequisite factors, the Academy would send a team to investigate the creatures living in the depths of the ruins, what risksy within, and how many floors there were. After that, if there were no jarring abnormalities, an advance team of mercenaries and experienced adventurers was tasked in creating a rudimentary map of the interior.
Since they upied the space first and could use their right of adverse possession, the Academy didnt find it difficult to collect information on the ruins without outside interference.
"Usually, mercenaries who apany the advance team get to take the relics they find during their run-through and leave while the guides remain."
They stayed so that the students could get a little information on theyout of the ruins and avoid its traps with their aid.
With that, Alexius paused and stabbed several spots in the wall with his scorpion tail.
A faint chill hovered above the gray-white floor of the hallway, too narrow for three people to walk side-by-side. The walls were dreary and durable, but there was no trap lying within.
However, as soon as Alexius stabbed the wall next to him, a of light appeared without a sound, wrapping around the space to his front.
Fwish.
He wasnt even near enough to touch it, yet Evan felt a cold sweat trickle down the back of his neck, a stark contrast against the heat he felt before him.
"And I am a guide who knows the way down to the fifth floor."
"Then does that mean?" William answered with a question, his expression surprised like hede to a sudden realization.
In response, Allen nonchntly replied, "Yes, we n to make the fastest run through the ruins, quicker than any other group. Down to the lowest level we can.
"Surely that would score us enough points.
If we cant beat it entirely, then we just give up and try to get to the furthest point possible That''s a good idea."
They seemed especially in awe of him, as if they hadn''t even considered it.
"Except you would have to give up hope of extracting any relics altogether."
Milred conveyed the final shoring of said operation, but the party willingly gave up their shot at obtaining relics.
Relics could be obtainedter, but the same couldnt be said for their grades.
What was surprising was that William also approved.
"I think that this is more important than money, too. Our score is of the utmost importance, so I think this is the right choice."
The reasoning behind his opinion seemed overlyplicated, but he soon returned to his usual self.
Milred called for their attention, saying that it was not quite over yet.
"But Allen, you won''t have been the only one who came up with this n. If you think about all those who were eliminated yesterday, wouldn''t other people have chosen a simr method in response, too?"
"In that case"
"I''m saying we have to hurry up."
The members of the party all looked back at each other, then hurriedly checked the map.
One-third of the first underground floor had been illuminated on the map.
If they continued moving at the same speed for the entirety of the allotted two weeks, they would reach the middle of the fifth floor.
But considering that the further they went down, the stronger the guardians and traps they would encounter, they might hit the time limit while still on the fourth floor.
If were conservative with our choices, our current speed might be enough to make it that far. However, in order to reap huge rewards, I think our best bet is to take the risk
Ariel''s eyes were resolute.
"What do you want to do?"
They had to go for it.
There would be emergency escape methods sprinkled throughout the ruins, so it wasnt like theyd really be risking their lives.
All they would lose was just the score they got in one ss. It was a big percentage of their final grade, but they wouldnt get anywhere without a little bit of risk.
Therefore, their choice was made.
"Lets give it a try."
"Cough Ill do my best.
"Same here."
As everyone agreed, Alexius looked at the map, recalling his experience in the advance team, and responded, "Well, I''ll pick up the pace."
The shortest breakthrough in the history of Allens team had been made.
* * *
* * *
The party moved at a brisk pace.
Until now, the map had been revealed as theyd made incremental progress in the safest way they could, but since the goal was now to head to the lower floors quickly, keeping that pace would no longer be possible.
"Allen, there''s a room up ahead!"
"Ignore it, like we nned!"
Theyd have to prove they could demonstrate the required knowledge before entering a room. The Academy had also trained them to deal with such situations, but implementing that practice would take a long time and didnt align with the current goal of the party as they tried to hastily make their way downstairs.
William looked as though he were a little disappointed, but he passed by the room without hesitation.
"Two sandmen in front! One ghoul!"
"I deal with the ghoul."
"Then I''ll deal with the sandmen.
Evan''s body, engulfed in blue magic, was several times faster than before. He swung his sword, and in that state, the body of the living dead was crushed without an opportunity to resist.
Ariel fired a single shining green arrow.
Shwoom.
In an instant, the arrow was sent flying, hitting both sandmen and rendering them to puffs of dust.
"Keep it up! Lets keep going!"
"Should we ignore what they''re dropping?
Alexius had been moving to retrieve the items theyd dropped, but paused at Allen''s words.
"Its more important to keep going and move fast than to gain by retrieving the little things."
Milred smiled coolly at Allen''s firm reply. "Wow, Allen. You sure know what to do!
"Understood." Alexius nodded in reply.
Thus, the party didnt explore their surroundings at all, rather, proceeding toward the stairs going down to the second floor as quickly as possible.
"There''s a trap ahead!"
"What kind?"
"Short-range attack, I think."
Alexius detected the trap with only a nce and shouted out, while Allen, whod also detected the trap with his senses, sent scattered shockwaves across the wall.
Crackle, pop! Crash!
A burst of air shot forward and smashed down the wall, causing both sides to then topple in on each other.
The party passed through the dusty stone debris that now filled the air as the wall returned to its original shape.
"Take a right here!"
"Argh! That scared me.
"Wh-what?"
"Who are?"
In the space in between, they found a group who had started before them. However, nobody from the group approached them, only looking in their direction with surprise.
They just stood and stared.
Along the way, Evan started wandering off alone after getting caught in a trap, and Ariel had to be treated after being wounded by guardians that had been incited to battle by their loud approach.
Yet still, Alexiuss strength was nearly shocking.
As William limped along with a somber, deadpan expression on his face, Alexius''s footsteps came to a halt in the dark passageway.
"Cough, cough Are we there yet?
"Hold on. Let me check."
Alexius opened the map at Williams exhausted-sounding question. The mapa third of which had been illuminatedstarted shining brightly, drawing a crooked line through the page.
"Yes, this is the passage I went through."
"Finally"
Alexius''s affirmation brightened the expressions of the party.
Allen examined their situation.
"How are you feeling, Evan?"
"I''d say Im alright, but Honestly, Im not doing too hot.
"Ariel?"
"It''s the same for me."
The group wasnt in good condition, having used their mana without much discretion and forcibly restoring it with potions when it ran low.
"William goes without saying.
Allen smiled wryly. William, who had needed to do extensive self-treatment due to hisck of physical strength, looked as though he were already half-dead.
Alexius seemed to be absolutely fine, as though this were quite literally a walk in the park, and Milred, as a junior, seemed to have no problem with this kind of activity.
But
Lets stop for today at the entrance of the second floor.
Allen checked the condition of the party and announced this, causing Ariel to voice her concern.
"Allen, but if we stop here, then we wont be able to make it
"Well, f-forget about me! Cough! Keep going, cough!"
William''s legs were trembling like a newbornmbs, yet he forced himself to keep moving, not wanting to be a burden.
Allen shook his head in spite of their resilience.
"We will be the first group to arrive on the second floor, anyway. Because of that, its better for us to go back, recuperate, and start again fresh tomorrow. We''ve gone through it once, so well be able to go all the way down to the third floor next time."
"But"
Nevertheless, Allen shook his head despite the party''s hesitant attitude, and asked again, "Then should we go down to the second floor right away? Since everyone seems to agree."
Ariel hesitated as Allen pretended to move forward, then replied with a sigh. "Youre right. We should call it a day, shouldnt we?"
"Hmm, ahem, being too greedy isnt quite ideal, is it?"
"I will follow your orders, Allen
Allen turned around, knowing that that was the conclusion that was going toe about.
"Then, shall we go back after entering the second hm?
Allen made a questioning sound as his head turned toward the party. On the wall there was a sentence written in ancient script.
Sir Allen, what are you Ah. Looking toward the wall where Allen''s gaze was directed, Alexius seemed to understand and thus met the partys puzzled eyes to exin. This is one of the inscriptions written on each doorway leading downstairs.
"Then"
"Yes, it''s a deadnguage that isnt in use anymore. Its meaning is hard to interpret
"Let me exin!"
Milred stepped forward with a stately step, as if it were her turn to shine. Shed had no opportunity to step up before then because of how well the members of the team had been doing on their own.
"Do you know how to interpret it?"
"Yes, yes. Starting in your sophomore year, you can choose ancientnguages as a liberal arts ss.
"Then, may we ask you to interpret?
"Sure!"
She read out the sentence, face full of confidence.
?? ?? ? ?? ?? .
"The entire world is painted ck, white, and gray."
Allen was staring at the phrase, but not because he didn''t know what it meant.
After all, hed done a lot of research before his regression. How could he possibly not pick up an ancient word or two?
There was, however, one reason why Allen kept quiet.
? ? ? ? ? ? ?.
"And so, the moon turned red, as countless stars descended.
His eyes did not descend beyond the first sentence.
? ?? ? ? ?? ?.
"Among them"
"Not even the brightest star could endure."
Milred looked at Allen with surprise as he finished her sentence. "You can read the ancientnguages, too!?"
"Yes, I study from magic books as much as possible, so I learned in case there were any trantions that differed in meaning from the source text.
"Well, I see."
Milred looked disappointed, realizing that Allen was equally knowledgeable in every field in which she proudly thought she could offer assistance.
Seeming to notice how she felt, Allen asked, "Could you still please continue interpreting?"
But cant you do it?
"I don''t know it too well, so it took a long time to interpret. It''d be more efficient for someone who actually knows thenguage better to take over."
"Oh, really?"
"Yes."
She answered with an unintentional smile. "Well, if wee across any more ancient words or murals, I''ll get it interpreted for yall!
"Please do."
Allen turned his head again, as if nothing had happened, and headed for the second floor.
However, that one sentence stuck in his head like a thorn.
Painted ck, white, and gray
Three books floated before his eyes, as if synchronized with his thoughts.
While searching for clues about the white book, hed stumbled upon an unexpected clue.
''That sentence may not actually have anything to do with the three books, but
Didnt it only make sense that this clue, found in the ruins which hed already suspected to be rted to the white book, was hinting at the reason behind the three deliberate colors of the books?
His eyes sank deep into thought.
Chapter 82
Chapter 82
Allens team became increasingly familiar with the ruins with each passing day.
Unlike the second day, when they spent most of their day passing through the first floor, their pace on that floor began to quicken over time.
On the third day, they not only went down to the second floor, but passed through about 30 percent of it.
And on the fourth day, they seeded in almostpleting the entire second floor.
If William hadn''t been exhausted by the cumtive fatigue from the days of hard work, they might have even gone down to the third floor.
On the fourth and fifth days, they took a break to recover from the fatigue theyd umted.
On the sixth day, the party entered the ruins fully recovered and passed through the second floor down to the third floor.
The third floor featured ghouls and sandmen; however, golems also began to appear.
The group tried to move past the third floor as quickly as the second, but they had to spend time adjusting to its difficulty, hovering around the entrance for most of the day because of the unexpectedly strong golems and stealthilyid traps.
But on the seventh day, they fully adapted to the third floor. And on the eighth day, marking the halfway point of their practice-raid, they seeded in reaching the fourth floor.
After returning from an arduous night-long journey, morning came.
Ariel began to speak, her face serious, "We cant keep going like this."
"What do you mean? Aren''t we doing so well, though?" Evan responded with a quizzical look as he adjusted the bonfire.
The saucepan fixed over the fire gave off a savory scent. Unlike their first day, when theyd only eaten nd soup, Evan got used to cooking this dish well enough that he could make it ptable.
Well, it was more a result of the salt hed gotten from a merchant.
"Absolutely not. Evan, how long did it take for us to get down to the fourth floor?
"Well, six days, not counting the days we took off?"
Yes! Six days! Were already halfway through the practice-raid and weve only gotten down to the fourth floor!
Despite her fervent implorings, Evan wore an unimpressed expression.
"But there are only three floors left until the seventh floor. I think it''s doable considering how much of the time we have left."
"The lower you go, the harder it gets! Even if we do our best over the next six days, I think the fifth floor is going to be our limit. It''s just too much."
"Isn''t that enough?
Ariel drummed her fingers on the ground, agitated by the pushback. "No, didn''t you hear? Maria''s group has already mapped all the way down to the second floor and entered the third floor!"
She looked different from before. Devoid of any makeup and wearing simple leather gear on top of the Academys school uniform, the proud princess who entered the Academy was nowhere to be found, leaving behind only an archer whose only drive was toe out on top.
"What? Wasn''t the reason why we gave up on exploring each floorpletely because it was supposed to be too difficult? But they got down to the third floor even after getting all the way through the second?
"Yes. I tried not to think about it, but
That was all she said. After examining Allen''s expression, she went on.
A group from the supplementary ss apparently found a lot of relics in every room they went in. Each relic only gives you a few extra points, but I think that since they got so many, they could be at the top of the ranks.
She wasn''t the only one who had changed. Evan had shed some of his previously useless mannerisms, bravado, and arrogance in his trips in and out of the ruins.
"That means we''re not the only ones who''re ahead right now.
"Then thats a problem.
"Wh-what should we do, then? William, who had emptied his bowl of soup, asked carefully. Shouldn''t we change our goal topleting a run of each floor? We wont be the first to do it, but
Ariel shook her head in disagreement. "It''s toote. Itd take too long to explore each corner of every floor, even if we started right now.
"Then what do we do?"
"We''ll have to revise our goals a little bit.
Allen was the only one who hadnt undergone significant character development since theyd first met.
"I had something in mind but what about you, Allen? Tell us what youre thinking first.
If it werent for the hint of aristocratic mannerism already ingrained into their behavior, they could easily pass for young mercenaries or adventurers.
Or perhaps, just regr colleagues or students.
He was no different from them
Allen?
Huh?
Allen came to his senses at Ariel''s questioning gaze. His team members'' steady gazes pierced him.
"Is there something wrong?
"Are you hurt? I can treat you
"I was just thinking about what to do."
"Does that mean you have a n?
At the faint hint of anticipation in their eyes, Allen recited the answer he had urred to him earlier.
"I wouldnt quite call it a n. Just, a sort of countermeasure, maybe."
Hurry up and tell us."
Allen kept his answer short in response to the team''s irritation, as if to tell them that it would all be okay.
"The guardian of the seventh floor."
"Oh!"
When Ariel flicked to Evan at his exmation, which hinted at a sudden realization, he turned his head, looking sheepish.
"Well, I just thought it was cool.
"Sigh."
Ariel shot him a pathetic look.
"If you don''t know, just keep quiet like William, Evan!"
"O-okay. But isn''t William always quiet?
"Even if he is like that half the time, you should still try to be more like him.
"W-well, I''m not that quiet
"Just keep it in mind."
Evan quietly deted as William sat, discouraged.
Allen resumed his exnation. "Our original n was to reach the seventh floor as quickly as possible, but no matter how much progress we can make in a day, a realistic goal for us would be only the fifth floor, just because of how much ground there is to cover in so little time.
So because our issue is the amount of hours we have in a day, no matter how hard we try
"Then, do you think we could make it to the sixth floor if we worked all through the day without breaks? No, even if we get that far down, I dont know if wed be able to deal with the stronger guardians on the lowest floors.
Evan couldnt muster any argument against Allen''s logic.
"We don''t have the stamina to do that."
This time William''s face darkened.
"Of course, it doesn''t matter if you''re satisfied with a decent score, but if were working so hard anyway, shouldn''t we aim for the top score?
"That''s true."
"Y-youre right."
Evan and William gave a quick nod in agreement.
"I originally thought we could aim for first ce just by being the first to make it to the seventh floor. Since there are others closing the gap on us, we need a more fail-safe way to get ahead.
"Allen, are you trying to say that theres another way?
Ariel kept muttering that he was crazy, seeming to grasp the superstitions and guardians that Allen had spoken about. Finally, she asked, "Allen, I hate to say this, but are you insane?
Oh, so I''m not the only one who feels that way?
Allen tapped the sword, requesting that Ves stay quiet.
"Even so"
The corners of her mouth rose into a smile, unrecognizable from their first meeting.
I like it. I like it a lot.
William and Evan turned to face each other, dumbstruck at the impossible scene. Ves burst intoughter at the sight.
* * *
* * *
There were many superstitions surrounding megaruins, and even ordinary ruins in general.
One could, for example, look back to find theirpanion had vanished into thin air, or perhaps witness an ancient ghost roaming about.
Most of the countless superstitions surrounding ruins were regarded as unsubstantiated lies There were times when the ims possessed some levels of validity, however.
The reality of the disappearing colleague story was that the person couldve been transported via magic, swallowed whole by arge and carnivorous nt, or erased instantly by some unknown mechanism.
It was a trap that appeared quite often, and though the type of ruins varied, the space-shifting trap was one the more easily identifiable.
The specifics of the method was different by contraption, but the result was always the same: a member of the group would disappear the second they werent being observed by someone else.
Being somon of a trap, there was no possibility that this type of trap would be entirely absent from these megaruins.
Yet, Allens team had yet to encounter such an ordeal.
''Shouldn''t we use this?
Theyre sure motivated.
Presently, the other members of the team had gone their own way.
William headed for amoner he knew, while Evan and Ariel approached their noble peers.
Alexius and Milred also stepped away, saying they would get information from the other upperssmen and guides.
Ves.
Ves?
She made a startled sound, as if she had only just now heard Allen. Oh, uh, yes. Whats up?
Is something wrong? You havent been talking muchtely.
No, I was just thinking about something else for a moment. My bad.
She had been more docile since entering the ruins, perhaps because Allen didnt use his sword much.
Its about what you were all talking about at the meal earlier, right?
Yeah.
I think it''s okay, though it is dangerous. But youll have the escape routes, so theres virtually no risk.
Yes. Among the many traps, if theres one that moves you down a floor, we should be able to use that to move toward lower floors and widen the gap.
After that, if they could confront the final guardian on the seventh floor of the ruins, nobody else would be able to bridge the gap, no matter what they tried.
That sounds great. Oh, I hope youll get a chance to use a sword again.
Ves grumbled in an unnecessarily exaggerated voice.
''Perhaps that time maye sooner rather thanter.
Really? For real?
Yeah.
Hooray!
Allen''s eyes drifted toward the entrance of the ruins, where he could hear amotion arising.
"What''s going on?"
"Hey, didnt you hear? The escape artifact someone tried to use didnt work.
"What? Really? Thats insane
While he listened in on their summary, he saw the unconscious students returning, brought back by a group returning from their exploration of the second floor of the ruins.
Escape artifacts allowed students an immediate escape if they ever felt as if they were in too much danger. They were simrly triggered if a student fainted or fell; in other words, if a student were unconscious, for whatever reason, the artifact would activate.
And yet, none of the unconscious students had been automatically transported to safety?
"Attention, all students are not to enter the ruins at this time! There has been an ident, so we will put the practice-raid on hold for now. Once again, attention!
"But, professor. What do you mean?
Something within the ruins had finally begun to make its move.
The entrances to the third and fourth floors held no information that seemed to rte to anything of interest to Allensuch as the mysterious ck and white booksunlike the entrance to the second floor.
Thus, it was fortunate for Allen that this incident had urred.
Should I look into the old mythological era?
Allen recalled the writing on the doorways down to the third and fourth floors.
? ? ? ?.
?, ? ? ? ? ??, ? ? ? .
? ?? ? ? ? ?? ? ?.
?? ??, ?? ?, Evil Thorns ?.
? ? ? ? ? ?.
?? , ? ?? ?? ? ? ??.
The sacred tree could not bud.
Atop the ashes would the eagle rise if not for the loss of a dear friend.
Only the one who maligned the corpse snuck into the burrow alone.
The Great King, the Father of the Wise, and the cry of the Evil Hand.
For I have secreted away that most precious treasure.
Whoever should find it shall have the bestpanion to lifes end.
* * *
The seventh underground floor of the ruins had been entered by neither the students nor the advance team.
A hally at the very bottom of the ruins, a ce that only the Academy''s survey team had confirmed the existence of before quickly pulling out.
There, somebody was busy.
A golem the size of a hill, guarding the depths, remained in ce, as if it didn''t even recognize his presence.
His job was simple.
Scritch-scratch, scritch-scratch, scritch-scratch.
"I''ll erase this and leave this"
Erasing the murals and phrases that needed to be erased, leaving only what needed to be left behind.
"I''m d we finished it before theet fell."
The middle-aged man, with brown hair, green eyes, and a pot-belly, finished the work without losing the smile on his face.
"If I hade a little earlier, we would have finished upstairs, too
His expression clouded with regret, as he pulled a small mirror out of his pockets.
He knelt down with a reverent look and began, "Master Kasha, I havepleted the task."
"Well done."
A smooth voice came from the mirror.
He flinched in surprise, and then bowed his head deeply.
"Oh, no. It was all his arrangements!"
"Yes, all your hard work will be rewarded
The surface of the mirror began to fade to ck.
"Fern."
"Ah"
The ckened mirror emitted a sh of white light before expanding and swallowing the man.
The golem btedly moved to confirm his partners position, but found nothing, as if there were nobody there at all.
The space fell into silence once again.
Chapter 83
Chapter 83
While the students noisily congregated, the professors all gathered together.
As professors qualified enough to teach the students of Galshdin Academy, they werent about to lose their cool.
"Why do you think this happened?"
"The artifacts were all checked before departure."
The preliminary exploration was also confirmed in the report submitted by the survey team, right?
They, too, seemed surprised that this incident had happened.
There were many secrets in the ruins that had yet to be discovered, but the Academy had been actively exploring and documenting the ruins popting the Great Desert for hundreds of years already. It was for that reason that the professors didnt understand why such amotion had urred in the middle of their practice-raid.
By every logical metric, things should have gone smoothly.
"Well, it''s a megaruins, not a typical ruins site, so I suppose it was more likely that something unexpected might happen."
"That''s true, but
They changed the subject, knowing they couldnt only debate over irresolvable semantics.
"What about the students who passed out?"
"I checked in on them a little bit ago, and theyd woken up. Theyre fine, some fogginess in their memory from right before they lost consciousness.
Did you check their field notes?
"I checked those first, but
In response to the others'' questions, the professor who had obtained their recording device stood up with a sigh.
"We couldnt find anything of use even though several professors, including myself, have personally investigated the scene."
"What? What do you mean?
He activated the artifact, perhaps thinking a demonstration was more useful than an exnation.
A rectangr screen floated in the air, disying the scene from the time in question.
"As you can see here, the students were trying to retrieve relics from the rtively safe first floor."
"Hmm, the first floor, huh?"
The students on the screen were proceeding step by step, just as they had practiced at the Academys simted ruins.
"But watch."
As soon as he spoke, the screen suddenly went ck, and only the sound of their copsing bodies could be heard.
No screams, no scuffles, nor signs of threat.
Without any warning at all, the students had just copsed.
Milton, the professor of spearmanship, frowned at the bizarre sight. "I don''t think it couldve been poison Couldn''t it be a trap utilizing some form of hypnosis?"
"But the students didnt show any signs of resistance. Didnt the advance teams examinations prove that humans disy at least some resistance to the mental traps present in these ruins?
"That''s true, but as we saw in that video, there mustve been an overwhelming difference in skill between the opponent and our students. Perhaps enough so that they really had no opportunity at all to resist
He burst intoughter when he said that. "Wouldnt the survey team have encountered such an entity?
If there were such a force present, why would it let the students run amuck in the ruins for over a week before making its first move? It had stayed quiet when the survey team had entered the deepest part of the ruins, and it had stayed quiet when the advance team had scouted around the site. Yet it allowed the students to run around for a week, then now suddenly couldnt let them be?
"Ridiculous. It would be more reasonable to assume that the students encountered a new kind of trap."
Um Well, the chairman oversees this event directly, so there shouldnt have really been a chance for such an oversight to have urred.
Perhaps the trap dealt more with soul capture, rather than mind alteration. But how could the trap quietly knock them out if it was targeting their souls? Ah, that would be crazy.
The professors talked, their faces remainingrgely impassive.
This kind of ident was the kind of thing they encountered several times a year. A terrorist attack would ur, or an ancient monster would appear out of the ruins, or an artifact that usually worked without a hitch would suddenly stop workingsuch unexpected situations were now just a part of their daily lives.
Therefore, rather than speaking with noticeable agitation, they picked apart the details.
It was a sudden turn of events, but not a single person handled it properly. This is something we should consider as grounds for deduction.
"If anyone had responded well, I''d consider it just a mistake. But, tsk. Students these days are too soft. It wasn''t like that back in my day.
"Yes, yes. And its not like this is unreasonable? What were they gonna do if this was a real situation, huh? Shouldn''t they have at least tried to buy time to fire a signal for those around them?
Following the lead of the first professor, the other professors also bashed the students for their generalxness, bing less vignt and morezy, enamored by their so-called natural talent.
Jaqnelle sympathized with their passion, but not with their ideas.
No kid is good at dealing with such dangerous things at this age.
On one hand, he thought that students at Galshdin Academy, having beaten out thousands of other students for their spots, should be able to ovee this level of hardship.
But he also knew that wasnt reasonable. The purpose of the Academy was to raise the next generation of warriors, mainly in the hope of being able to fight against any cmity that would arise, like the return of the Demon King. Even if such a cmity were impossible to ovee, there had to be at least a little resistance set in ce.
Even if that resistance were actually useless.
"That''s not the point, anyway. Word has already gotten around, and the students are getting anxious."
"Nonsense, didn''t they all know the risk ining here? Its not supposed to be a pic, they should havee prepared to face an ident, no?
"Well There have already been a few whove attempted to give up on the practice-raid"
The professors shouted out, as if they never couldve imagined this oue.
"What on earth?
"And there are some threatening to lodge aint because of the problems with the escape artifact. There are quite a few students backing up that threat as well."
"No way"
Do they think this is a joke? Theyre acting like this is a casual outing!
"Times sure have changed
"Ah, tsk. Thirty years ago, any person who gave up was treated like an absolute moron
The professors sighed. However, they couldn''t stop the dungeon practice-raid here, just because the difficulty of the ruins they''d chosen this year happened to be a little too high.
"I can already hear all the shit Im going to get when we get back.
"This is a once in a lifetime opportunity, though
We cant pull out now! How is that fair to thepetent students? Or even, just when considering the prestige of the Academy?
In actual battle, one couldnt just quit because they wanted to, and they couldnt just escape because they felt like it.
This was a prime example of what real battle should feel like.
* * *
* * *
"In any case, the significance of the practice we execute should be reiterated. However, if we go ahead like this, many students might be too scared and give up
How could they motivate students and encourage them not to give up until the end of the practice-raid?
Their expressions darkened. They had yet to experience any situation like this in their careers as professors, and had never thought they would.
Seeing this, Jaqnelle broke his quiet watch of the meeting and shared his thoughts.
"I will go into the ruins."
"No, Master Jaqnelle, what are you talking about?
The first among them to speak was Professor ich, and Jaqnelle replied with a nonchnt expression.
"Let the students know that I will go into the ruins and watch over them myself."
"Ah!"
They understood what Jaqnelle was saying.
"To show that there is no reason for them to be anxious. Or to put it bluntly, to show that their fears are no different from superstition. They might be less scared if they feel they have someone to lean on
"You''re going to enter the ruins
"Even though nothing has been resolved."
A member of the Top Eight was saying he would go directly into the ruins and protect the safety of his students. Who wouldnt believe him?
"In fact, if the same incident were to happen again, they would know that I could protect them. Its not facious in the slightest.
The professors nodded. However, it was more like they looked at him and had no choice but to agree.
There were only six more days to enter and exit the ruins No, after today, only five. During those five days, Jaqnelle needed to be at the ruins day and night. But how could he be expected to pull that off?
That was an issue that the professors needed to solve.
If the resident member of the Top Eightsomeone who had onlye along as a backup measurewas in charge of such a crucial task
But since they had done nothing wrong, one professor gathered the courage to carefully say, "Well, we are very grateful to you, Master Jaqnelle. Thank you for your passion, acting directly for the sake of our students
"Hmm? What do you mean?: Jaqnelle said with a mellow smile on his face. "Haha, you dont expect me to do all this for the students by myself, do you?"
"You mean"
"Let''s all go together. All of us."
The professors faces paled at his words.
Malvern, the eldest professor of water elementals, spoke with tears in his eyes. "Ha, but Ill be over sixty this year, and I must return to see my grandson
"Then do you mean that I should go into that dark, dangerous ruins site alone?"
When he responded with a stern face, Malvern hurriedly corrected himself. "Oh, no. I meant that I would be sad if you left me behind since I am an old man. Ha, ha
He spoke those words outwardly, as he cursed to himself inwardly.
Where in the world would one of the Top Eight find any force that could endanger them?
"Hahaha, I was mistaken. Its because Im still so young and have little social experience. Thank you for your patience!
"N-naturally. I will demonstrate that these old men still have a horse in this race."
"And I''m sure all the other professors will join for the sake of their students, too, right?"
When Jaqnelle asked with a smile, everyone nodded. Though they all wanted to say no, they knew they couldnt, and they mourned that fact.
"Lets go. We have to go. For the students."
"Ah, Im so nervous I havent gone into the ruins myself in such a long time.
"Hahaha Im kind of excited to work alongside kids at this age again.
They answered in earnest, hoping to satisfy Jaqnelle with their responses.
"Im d to see that everyone agrees. Oh, by the way, dont you have something else to discuss, too? Looks like everyone heres stuck at Rank 6 or 7
The professors'' eyes gleamed at Jaqnelle''s words. The gazes of the old middle-aged men werent pleased, but Jaqnelle endured.
Leaving things like this would only hurt their feelings. He had to dangle a carrot in front of them.
"Why don''t you talk about your ranks in the hierarchy so you dont get bored in the dark?"
"Well, what a grand idea!"
"Oh, I love dark ces!"
"Hmm Ive been really enjoying dark and lonely ces nowadays Maybe because Im old.
Jaqnelle burst intoughter as he took them in as they talked like children.
"Lets do our best."
Their meeting had ended in sess.
* * *
"William, did you hear?
"Everyone was talking about it.
"Who doesn''t know at this point?"
"Then what should we do? Ariel asked as she looked around with a worried face.
The campsite was abuzz with talk about what had happened that morning.
"What can we even do? We can''t give up here."
"Still the escape artifacts dont work
"I believe in Jaqnelle. He may be the youngest, but hes still a member of the Top Eight. And didn''t the professors also just say that it was the result of a new trap?
"That is true
There are also professors who will be stationed all over the ruins just in case, so what''s there to worry about?"
Ariel still looked at the sky with a t expression, unable toe to a decision.
She was racking her brain, trying to weigh the new obstacles and the risks of their endeavor with the potential rewards.
Looking over his group, Allen thought over what might be lurking in the ruins.
Could it be the Demon King? A band of dark sorcerers? Or just remnants of ancient magic?
The sunset had already darkened to the point that the orange, previously sprawled across the sky, had all but disappeared; only the twinkling stars shone through the ck night, silently and faintly illuminating them.
As everyone found themselves lost in thought within the calmness of the atmosphere, William summoned up his courage and spoke.
"E-everyone, why dont we try to calm down and just take a moment to look at the stars. One of my friends is from around here, and they told me that there''s a meteor shower every few decades in this area
"Well, no matter how many stars there really are in the sky, my friend always said it just looked like an ocean full of stars Well, I actually looked into it on my own, and I found out that aet passes by every 82 years, and this is the exact region where the meteor shower should appear Itsing It''s about time
William''s voice grew smaller and smaller, perhaps nearing his limit, before he wentpletely silent.
The atmosphere was tense with static.
Just as Allen had finished contemting whether he should speak to break the awkward silence, he heard augh.
"Pfft what was that, William? Are you trying to lift the mood? Because of me?
"Well, I mean, I just don''t want you guys to worry too much
"Is that really it? William, do you have a crush on me or something? I dont think even Evan could pull off such a ballsy move
"Hahaha, w-wait a minute. When did I ever do that?"
William was once again embarrassed, as Ariel teased. Evan coughed in reply.
"Phew, but you did make me feel a little better. Thank you. And about the ruins Ariel thought hard and burst intoughter again. "I never take risks Lets do it. We should at least try so that we dont regret itter, right?"
"Hmm, you''re right. Though I''d like to have a personal conversation with Master Jaqnelle
We can try if we see him. But I don''t know if well even be able to find him.
As the three of them carried their lively conversation, Ves suddenly asked, Allen, do they know you''ve been having a hard time during this training?
''What?'' Allen''s eyes snapped to his three peers.
Those kids were enjoying their youth, with age-appropriate worries and dreams.
I mean, does it mean anything to them that you''ve tried to match their energy as much as you could for thest few weeks to get them information?
''Well, I don''t know.''
Then why are you trying so hard? You said that all you wanted was to live so that you could fulfill your goals. This isnt like you, you know.
Allen was a little troubled by Ves''s question.
That''s
Did you get attached to them?
Allen hesitated for a moment then answered, poking a branch into the zing bonfire.
''No, that''s not it. It''s just I just got a little carried away with keeping up with them.
Ariel checked the time and got up from her seat.
Unlike when she had first sat down, her face was devoid of any worry.
Chapter 84
Chapter 84
"I''ll turn in first. Allen, you have first watch tonight, right? See you tomorrow."
"I''ll get going now, too. I''ve got a rough idea of where the space-shifting traps are, so tomorrow should go smoothly. Evan shed a rxed smile that didn''t quite match his typical arrogant expression and disappeared into the tent.
''I''m surprised, hes not acting like himself.
Allen was dumbfounded as he smiled bitterly, thinking of how Ves must be reacting at the moment, too.
Allen knew. He understood what she was saying.
After all, no matter how he tried to justify it to himself, he knew he couldnt really fit in with them.
He would do anything for his brother, and nothing could measure up to that drive.
In the first ce, he had onlye to find a way to save Julius. What point was there in taking his ventures in a new direction now?
He shouldnt have enjoyed it, and he shouldnt have let himself be vulnerable.
"Allen.
"Allen?"
"Ah, ha. I didn''t hear you, I was lost in thought. What did you say?"
William shook his head and asked Allen with a careful expression, "Well, are you okay? You looked really worried about something
Allen shook his head in dismissal.
"I was thinking about whether or not we could use the space-shifting trap, and if we could, the possibilities and limitations of keeping it running so that we can return.
William gave a nk look at Allens reply, unsurprised, as if hed had the same thought on his own.
"No, thats something you can think about tomorrow."
"I''m the team leader, so its something I should consider in advance.
"That''s so like you, Allen, no Captain." William burst into an uncontrobleughter at Allens reply paired with a small smile.
"By the way, I''m the only one on duty right now. Wouldn''t it be better for you to head in and rest now?"
"I-I have things to think about, too."
"Well then."
Afortable silence settled over them. The bonfire burned with brilliant light, as if to show Allen a mirror image of himself, constantly burning away at his lifespan.
Crack, crackle.
Did you know?" William''s eyes did not stray from the bonfire. "I thought at first that every aristocrat was a monster. Those ruthless blue bloods were so cold-hearted toward my family, just gobbling up anything and everything we had.
That was why he had humbled himself at first, and then grew to have mixed feelings about their behavior as time went on.
"I mean, you arent wrong.
There were actually quite a few nobles like that.
They may have been aristocrats, but they behaved like merchants, toolike a pack of wolves.
One person in particr came to Allen''s mind.
The one who abandoned his own son for the sake of power and prestige.
"But I can''t say its right, no I couldnt."
William shook his head.
It didn''t take long for cracks to form in his prejudice.
When he came to the Academy only a few weeks ago, he was afraid of everything. William had grown up as an orphan, essentially a lowest-ss citizen.
If it hadnt been for one passing sorcerer who recognized his talent, he wouldn''t even be alive.
"Evan is the kinda guy who is arrogant on the outside but soft on the inside. He tries to appear perfect so as to not shatter that image.
Sometimes, he was too aggressive about it, so he came across as overly arrogant.
William had been nervous to speak in front of him at first, but now he felt no pressure from Evans arrogant appearance.
"Ariel has a lot of pride, but she loves to joke around, too. You know? She deliberately says misleading things to see how Evan and I will react."
Basically a princess. How much must he have blushed and cowered in the beginning, each time he identally made eye contact with her?
Shed used her attitude to get to know the group in a yful way, so he understood what kind of person she was.
"Allen, I thought you were impartial. Youre the second in our ss, yet you didnt discriminate against anybody. And you helped me out a lot at the beginning. I learned that you are all really nice people. So nice that I wouldnt even hesitate to hang out with you all.
The stuttering student who, at one point, was unable to get along with his peers due to his background was no longer there.
Allen bowed his head low at his sincere words, avoiding eye contact with him.
"Why are you saying all this?
"I-I just wanted to tell you. I wanted to thank you.
Williamughed faintly.
"Well, it''s kind of weird to just tell you my evaluations of other people, so to speak I''m actually looking for my sister. Have I told you I''m an orphan?"
"No, you never mentioned it."
"I''m looking for my sister. She was sold as a ve a long time ago, and I wanted toe to the Academy by any means because of that. Of course, I was a little lost at first, but He smiled as if he had recalled his Academy life, and soon answered with a confident look. "I think that I can find her now. Her name repeats on loop in my mind, but all I can remember of her is that she and I have the same curly ck hair.
He was so full of hope and determination.
Allen began to speak somewhat impulsively at the sight. Yet at the same time, he realized that even if he were to share this tale, his background would prevent Evan from being moved by it.
"Im here because I want to find somebody, too."
It was a secret that only Linbelle, Inellia, Ves, and Catherine knew. A secret he hadnt even told Rachael yet leaked out of his mouth.
"May I ask who it is?
Allen fell silent upon Williams question, causing thetter to question if he had crossed the line. William rose from his seat with an awkward smile.
"You''ll find them one day, Im sure of it."
"Of course"
Allen grinned a little, mulling over his words. His smile showed none of his usual concern.
"You think so?"
"Yes!"
Allen found it funny how William said he could do it without knowing the full story, but he didnt think it wasnt a particrly bad thing.
"W-well, its gettingte! I should get going now!"
With that remark, he hurried away.
His steps quickened.
Looking at the redness of William''s ears, Allen could see that he was barely containing his shyness.
But he paused for a moment, and then turned his head to nce back just once.
I think I would be okay living this kind of life from here on out. So, maybe I shouldnt try so hard to do everything all on my own.
He spoke to himself, his smile broad unlike before.
"We''re teammates, aren''t we? Of course they might not look the most reliable. But who knows? We might just toss out a good idea or two."
He then quickly walked off, not waiting for a word of reply.
"I''ll see you tomorrow morning."
Allen couldnt say anything as William made himself scarce.
Have I gotten too soft?
[Are you alright?]
The light of the bonfire didnt reach his bowed face. Allen did not answer Ves''s question.
Not a single word was exchanged.
* * *
* * *
(Jaqnelle, one of the Top Eight, enters the megaruins to prevent further idents.)
Hours after the ident, news sources across the continent spread the announcement. It was met with a great response, just as the Academy professors had expected.
Jaqnelle is really here?!
When? How? No, is it true that we''re still going to go into the ruins?
Our group is going in. Tomorrow. And then well definitely meet him inside!
Even students who were hesitant to enter the ruins out of initial anxiety changed their minds in nearly an instant. The influence of his presence on students was palpable.
One of the Top Eight.
Even if they didn''t know why he was there or what exactly he was going to do, it didn''t matter.
His presence alone was reassuring.
However, their sudden jump in motivation was so hasty that many entered the ruins unprepared and were promptly eliminated. The professors couldn''t hide their bitterness upon hearing of this trend, but what could be done about it after the fact? They made mental notes to add more mental training to the curriculum next semester.
"Alexius, is this the right ce?"
"Yes, this should be it."
Allen''s party entered the ruins early in the morning, anticipating the other groups of students flocking in shortly after.
They went swiftly through the plummeting spiral staircase, through the familiar gray passage, and inward. But today, their goal was not to go down as fast as possible.
"What if I mess something up again?
"Hmm Honestly, at this point I feel like the other students were just lying
Allenforted them with a wry smile.
"How many people can really remember exactly what happened when they were eliminated?
They spent yesterday gathering information about the location of the space-shifting trap, asking those who had already been eliminated.
Although William, Evan, Ariel, Milred, and Alexius had collected various pieces of information
Rumble.
When Alexius triggered the trap, the floor opened and closed in an instant.
"It''s a dud again."
This was the fifth time already.
Unfortunately, despite searching as hard as they could from early morning until daylight had broken, their efforts had borne no fruit.
The trap in front of them was just a trap, not the space-shifting trap.
"Don''t worry! It''s okay if we can''t find it today. I''ll talk with the others to ask for more detail. So"
"No."
Allen cut her off tly.
"Why?" Milred asked, rather curiously as to why Allen had done so.
"Someone will notice our actions from yesterday and the motivation behind them."
"But even if someone notices, wont it be fine as long as we still find it first? We can still aplish that next time.
Allen shook his head.
"It won''t be easy to get information anymore. The reason why we were able to do so yesterday wasrgely because there happened to be an ident."
If it weren''t for that, their peers wouldve seen them simply aspetitors, and wouldnt have given them information so easily. But because the ident prohibited their entrance to the ruins and created anxiety, they were able to obtain information through small talk.
"They must have known that we were inquiring about the space-shifting trap, so everyone mustve known, too, that our group was moving with the goal of being the quickest to break through to the bottom floor."
It would all be meaningless if they didn''t find the trap first.
People only cared who came in first ce, and first ce alone. In other words, no matter how much effort the second ce put in, or how much they had gone through, it would all be meaningless to others.
"Maybe theyll share the information in exchange for something else. Like relics or money."
William nodded, as if sympathizing with Allen''s words. "Th-thats certainly an option."
The memory of shame from his prying question from yesterday still had yet to fade, and when their eyes met, the back of his neck flushed red.
"Even so, it would take a lot of time to check every single location What should we do?"
"Based on what Allen said There must be other people outside who want to make a trade for the space-shifting traps by now.
Evan looked perplexed at the issue, which hed assumed would be easily resolved, still going without a solution.
With that, the party moved on to three more ces.
The next trap was a de-like gust of wind, and the following was an extensive gravity field.
And the third was a few bursts of me fluttering and refracting in the air ahead of them.
Seeing his party bing increasingly motivated, Allen stepped forward.
''I''ll have to help them out here.
Originally, he wasn''t going to get involved so that his team members could be the ones to find it, but he changed my mind.
There was no telling what kind of monster would pop out from the ruins if they just lingered. Perhaps it was the right choice to reach their goal quickly so they could get out.
"Alexius, may I have the map?"
"What? Of course
Alexius looked puzzled, but gently handed the map over to him.
For thest week, the map had been littered with white lines. Allen began to rule out possibilities using all the information that his team members had gathered.
"From here to here, I think we should ignore this partpletely."
"What? A-Allen? What do you mean? Ariel asked, surprised.
In response to Ariel''s question, Allen briefly gave an exnation to the members of the team. "When something shifts through space, the moving matter ripples and disconnects. With this in mind, the ces that I just pointed out have no possibility of spatial movement due to their geography."
"Allen, even if it''s a possibility
"Even if there is a space-shifting trap there, well still have time to check it out after trying somewhere else first.
Allen continued with an unusual intensity, causing them to close their mouths.
"The four in the northwest and the two in the southeast are the same. The strange dizziness that you feel while moving through space is not motion sickness, but the unconscious resistance response to the illusion."
Allen''s fingers moved along the map. His team members followed the trail hed marked.
"Weve heard of one ce in the east, one in the west, and two ces in the south that were said to have moved with the waves of space, so that would appear to be a space-shifting movement at first nce, but those are actually a trap thatpresses space itself."
"Why is that?"
"Because as something ripples through space, it sends out walls of wavefronts. The waves as they travel in space form an ellipse of constant magnitude that stretches up and down."
"I see"
"Do you have any more questions?"
Evan shook his head, wondering if he had done something wrong since hed been the one to instigate Allen''s onught of unstoppable answers.
"No, Im good
"Then I will continue to exin."
Allen ruled out more than a dozen traps for various reasons.
"Someone reported that this ce is an altar. Moving through space into an altar is far too conscious of an effort, very likely to be performed by some being from a different dimension, rather than moving to some other random location within the ruins
"And remember that they also said that there are square magic circles and mirrors decorating all four walls of the room. It''s not a space shift, it''s a technique to seal something within the mirror
"And then the three cubes with a sword in the center Again, it''s a very rare and difficult technique. When you get too close, you''ll be transported inside one of the cubes
The party had no choice but to nod their heads absent-mindedly. They couldn''t find any holes in his logic.
Aside from the convoluted exnations as to whose theories he was basing his logic on and where they were verified, Allen''s exnation was easy and coherent enough for the non-sorcerers to understand.
Evan was awed, having watched Allens passionate lecture. "Allen, you really are a sorcerer, huh?"
I didnt want to waste my knowledge on only practicing magic when necessary. I thought it would be helpful for times like now.
Y-you know what they say: A sorcerer isnt a sorcerer if they aren''t crazy about magic.
William murmured the famous saying, recognizing that Allen was human after all.
"I think I covered it Does anyone else have any more questions?"
Excluding all of the ces that theyd ruled out for one reason or another, there were only two spots left.
"No"
"Hmm, then how about we get going now. We dont have time to spare."
"Allen, I knew that you had some knowledge of the spatial system, but I didn''t know that you were capable of anything like this
Allen whispered in a low voice, uncaring of Milreds gaze, "Well then, lets get going."
The time hade to end their exploration and dungeon practice in the megaruins.
* * *
Julius''s group returned to the ruins yet again, having achieved great results over thest few days.
"Let''s take a little break. I''ll go and keep watch on the path for a while."
You go do that."
When Julius allowed it, Erini disappeared to the other side of the passageway, promising to scout for a while.
The remaining members of the group began their short break.
As everyone else sat down, only the boy of medium height looked around, as if to satisfy his voracious curiosity.
"Well, if you look at the structure and style of these ruins, its definitely not a castle or any kind of religious structure.
Speaking in a thin yet husky voice, Mattias concluded his assessment with ease, as if his observations were of no extra effort at all to him.
"Not a castle?"
Mattias nodded at Avelines questioning voice.
"From my observations, yes, not a castle."
"Why? There are four spires, and I think the structure is pretty reminiscent of one."
"Well, as you know, the ruins are the legacy of the fallen ancient empire."
The legacy of the ancient empire, said to have once dominated the entire continent and blossomed into a brilliant civilization.
Step, step, step.
"And the ancient empire made tremendous progress in many ways."
From things like magic, spiritual methods, technology, and martial arts to techniques that revolutionized agriculture, and advancing their methods of food acquisition all across the continent.
"The ruins, which we can understand as a memorial of that progress, contain a variety of artifacts and lost technologies from that period."
"Who doesn''t know that? Dont just repeat the obvious, and get to the point.
Mattias nodded at Aveline''s snort.
"Youre right. Well, its because of this that the styles of the ruins sites can usually be sorted into various types,ing from the different regions and periods of the ancient empire. But here I don''t see a clear purpose behind the architecture."
"What?"
"Buildings have many purposes. Living, studying, training Even storage. So, it''s the same with ruins.
Magical developments were usually concocted in someone''sboratory or in the main tower of a now vanished ancient school. The ruins that elves dedicate all their energy to finding were branches of the World Botanical Garden, rumored to have mainly studied nts.
"But this ce has no purpose?"
"Well, I''m getting there
At Julius''s question, Mattias frowned for a moment, as if he were thinking to himself for a moment. As soon as he was about to answer, someone else chimed in.
"Wait, I''m sorry to interrupt, but what role does this ce y?
Rather than Julius, it was Bielli Kazanaf who spoke, the princess of a small marine kingdom at the southern tip of the continent, with distinctive dark sea-green hair.
She was also an upperssmana sophomorewho joined the group at the same time as him.
"It''s I think it''s maybe a prison? No, it has to be more than that I think its here to seal something away Something like that.
"A prison?
Chapter 85
Chapter 85
"You said youre a princess, so you must be familiar with the structure of a castle."
I Right."
"What essential structures are there in a castle?"
"What? Wait a minute.
Thinking over the sudden question for a moment, she made a fist then began to count off her fingers one by one.
"To start with a castle needs a room for mom and dad, no the king and his family to stay in, and another room for receiving guests. Other essentials would be a conference room, an audience chamber or something of the like, a grand hall, a dining hall, a banquet hall, a library, a treasury, and
An office, basic facilities for various government agencies, other amenities for royalty, an armory, weapons storage, guard posts, soldiers quarters, military barracks, spires, ramparts, stables, washrooms, kitchens, food storage, servants'' quarters as well as dining and living spaces, dedicated gardens and hunting grounds, and simple magic towers
Visibly fed up with the constant stream of structures flowing from her mouth, Mattias shouted, "Stop, stop! Just one. Just the most essential thing."
As Bielli gave his words careful thought, Aveline shared, "The most essential thing? I mean, its not like I have a ton of experience living in a castle, but I think weve listed out most of the majorponents already."
It may not have been a castle, but it was at least simr to one.
Julius closed his mouth. He itched to respond but forced himself to turn a blind eye to her past since she wasn''t trustworthy to him yet.
"A ce where you stop by three times a day."
"Three times?"
As everyone tilted their heads, Mattias sighed and gave the answer. "Im talking about the bathroom. The toilet."
"Oh, right!"
"Oh, thats so true."
Both Aveline and Bielli nodded, as if they had forgotten what Mattias said. They hadnt considered it because their minds had otherwise been preupied.
"Well, there seems to be a trend these days to get rid of things that ruin the aesthetic Apart from that, this is a must-have ce."
"Why do you say that?"
"Have you seen a bathroom or anything that even looks like it around here?"
"Come to think of it
Theyd all dug up and ransacked many of the rooms in these ruinsfrom armories to storage spacesyet there was no sign that anyone had lived there.
"Even if there are traps or guardians here now, the original purpose of the ruins doesnt change."
"Youre right."
Bielli nodded intently.
"If you think about it, did we enter any room at all that could be used as a guest room?
"No"
"I can''t believe this is just now urring to me.
Both shook their heads as if they had just realized it.
"And who would decorate the corridors of their castle with such a dull, gray color scheme, or without any windows? From that alone, we have to eliminate religious architecture from the possibilities, too.
Religious sites typically valued aesthetic beauty in their architecture, so this ce surely couldnt be a temple, nor a castle for the same reason.
"But wouldn''t it be a stretch to say that this is a prison? Or maybe it was built to store something important, or to entrap a demonic felon."
Mattias stroked his smooth chin at the first wordsing from the deep-voiced Belzec, a warrior unable to use magic who guarded the front.
"Hmm Thats an interesting perspective So you think that means they built a building this size just to store things."
"Yes."
"Why construct an entire, stand-alone building if you could just use the basement of a pre-existing castle to store something? And why would you need to build something this big to manage a criminal when they could just be killed instead?
"That''s a good point.
"Thats why I figured it was a prison or something like that. I don''t know its exact role."
"It was a useless question. I''m sorry."
When he apologized in a subdued voice, Mattias replied with a childishly mischievous smile.
"But Belzec, it was good to hear your thoughts. You never know. In fact, maybe there could even be an ancient ghost trapped in this basement, and maybe its been looking for chances to escape all along, hahahaha.
"Then theres no way we wouldve even entered these ruins.
"That''s right."
If something so out of control was in these ruins, the survey team would have found it and prohibited entry to the site.
Well, surely this ce had some purpose that we just dont know about yet? Its still the remnants of the ancient empire, after all. It must have had some sort of use.
"Isnt that a question for the schrs whoe after the raid?
"Yeah, we just need to get the relics, get a good score, and leave. Theyll sort out all the detailster, right?
"Haha, true."
She nodded and began to slowly rise from her seat, sensing the familiar signs of somethings approach.
Erini joined them, her movements light and red hair rustling behind her.
"There is a fork in the road up ahead. If you go to the right, there''s a somewhat dangerous trap
As he watched his teammates move while listening to Erinis exnation, Julius looked at Mattias with satisfaction in his eyes.
Just as I expected, Mattias should prove useful for future exploration.
Mattias was the second son of a family who specialized in architecture and design, given a free pass into the Academy for a blueprint that his ancestor had spent his entire life crafting. He would be an indispensable resource while exploring the ruins.
Because of his inherited expertise, Mattias proved to be quite helpful when exploring the ruins in the original novel.
I know the whereabouts of the blueprints. If I can use it as bait to lure Mattias and his family into our territory andwork
If that happened, they could recreate modern technologies such as cars and airnes, rebranding them as their own ideas.
Julius didnt understand the principles behind such technologies at all, but he figured that if he were to give Mattias a rough idea, he could recreate the machines.
Subways and trains were alreadying to fruition in the present era, so if anyone were to ask, he could surely say that he found a blueprint in the ruins. There was no reason to worry about being caught out for it.
Wont be long now.
Julius opened his Quest Window, his heart pounding.
Kill the ancient monster sealed in the ruins and prevent disaster yourself! Time limit: 4:17:34.
Reward: Fragment of truth(???)
The afternoon had passed and the evening hours had darkened with a sunset now vanished; and so, the twilight hours fell upon them.
* * *
* * *
The party moved swiftly toward a nearby trap.
Arriving at the northwestern side of the third floor, they finally triggered the trap with Alexiuss quick guidance.
Fwoosh!
gued with uncertainty even as they arrived, they were relieved when wind whistled through the space and their surroundings fluttered into wavy ovals melding into the space.
"I hope we move as far as possible
At the end of Ariel''s breathy words, their vision momentarily blurred, and then
Crash!
"Evan!"
"On it!"
Evan tried moving his body as soon as he was sure that they had been transported. As he lifted his shield, a heavy counter-force pulse through his body.
"Now!
Ariel shot an arrow at his cry, dousing the projectile in her magic to polish it off with overwhelming firepower. Her green mana swirled through the wind.
"Head down, Evan!"
Twang!
Evan hurriedly mmed his shield into the golem, shoving it sideways. The sharp arrow spun and pierced its body.
Crash!
The scattered dust settled and from the haze emerged the golems form.
Evan rose up. "Did you hit its core on your first try? Lucky"
"Evan!" William shouted loudly, and without hesitation, Evan hurried to move at his cry.
Bang!
When Evan nced back to check with an intense look, the golem hadnt stopped even though its core had surely been smashed. He grasped the situation in an instant.
"Does it have two cores?"
His eyes went cold. Hed only have one shot to attack from close-range. The other guardians would have heard the noise and would surely arrive soon.
If he wanted to bring this to a close as smoothly as possible, he had to end it with this attack.
In that case, where should I aim?
Could the core be in the center of the body, by the heart? Or maybe the center of its back?
"Evan, the head! Aim just under the center of its head!" William shouted, seeming to immediately pick up on Evan''s uncertainty.
Evan trusted William''s suggestion.
''William is smarter than I am.
In the past, he would have shrugged him off instead of acknowledging him. However, after spending more than a month together, he finally came to admit it:
William was amoner, as well as a man to be reckoned with.
"Got it!"
Now, he was a trusted colleague.
Blue mana surged from both of his legs, elerating his movements.
Baroque Style Arcane Technique - Wolf Fangs.
His body sharpened to a point as he raised his sword like a drill. Like the fangs of a blue beast, his mana viciously tore through the target.
Evan felt the grasp of its hand and immediately stepped back, using his shield to strike the golem once more.
ng!
He stared at the golem, still on guard, but it simply stumbled and fell to the floor. After watching the copsed figure on the ground for a moment more, he finally rxed somewhat.
Even then, his shield remained raised.
"It''s really over this time.
"Evan, are you okay?"
As William went over to check on his teammates condition, Evan raised his hand with a big smile. Once William confirmed that he was doing well, he smiled wryly and raised his hand, too.
p, p, p.
They heard the cheerful pping of hands.
"Ouch Why didn''t you go easy on me?"
"Hahaha! What else is a man to do? Well done!"
"But I mean, were colleagues."
Once the situation had been sorted, Allen scanned the surroundings with his senses and confirmed that there was no more danger before turning to Alexius.
"Alexius, what floor are we on right now?
Hold on, Im checking
His expression shifted as he examined the map. William approached him with an uneasy gait.
"Wh-what''s the matter? Did we go in the wrong direction?
"The seventh floor."
"What?"
"Were on the seventh floor"
The party did not understand the significance of what he said at first. However, as it clicked in their minds, they cheered.
W-we made it to the seventh floor!
"Allen! You were right! Wow! I''ve never done anything like that before.
"This is the seventh floor? Well, maybe thats why it felt so strange
"Are you sure this isnt a dream?
They only lowered their voices after being met with the group of roaming golems that had heard them. However, even if their voices had be hushed, their eyes shone brightly, unable to hide their joy.
"Now, if we can just take out the guardian of the ruins in the deepest part of the seventh floor and then make a sessful return!
"Well get first ce. That will definitely us a treasure trove of merits
Allen waited a moment to allow his team members to bask in the sh of joy, but once they had calmed down to some extent, he began, "We must not waste any more time. If there are other students like us who were able to gather the right information and get to this point
When Allen dangled that thread and cut himself off, they picked up the pace.
"Come on, lets go!"
"I bet nobody else will be able to catch up."
"Let''s go, rookies!"
It wasn''t easy to traverse the seventh floor.
It was littered with guardians and traps more crafty and troublesome than theyd ever encountered before. Even the advance team hadnt entered this floor, so the number of enemies they had to deal with had essentially doubled.
However, it wasnt enough to stop them.
This is because Allen had begun to pull his weight to some extent.
With one hand, he motioned for his threads to gather. He didnt have any particr image in mind. Just any way to create an opening was enough. He swung his finger to tangle the threads into his own little tools. Delicately, as if ying an instrument. Not putting too much force into it, then rxing a little.
Ding.
The bell began to ring.
Ding, dong, ding.
The cylindrical instrument, consisting of twelve round metal tubes, rang out a symphony of tones. From its base, numerous clear waves gradually rippled out.
As the golem steadily grew in size, parts of its body began to harden. Ariel shot off green arrows wrapped in Evans blue mana, finishing it off.
"Before they gather up, lets go deeper toward the core of the seventh floor!"
"Alexius, please take care of the traps!"
The party truly did their best.
From ss B, ss C, and ss D.
Freshmen and upperssmen.
Students and a guide.
They trudged on.
"L-let me heal you!
William had ovee his mental block. Now his skills wouldnd him in ss A.
"Evan, keep him upied for five seconds, or even just three! I''ll take the big one!"
"Got it!"
Ariel and Evan, too, had grown tremendously by this point.
If they used the experience gained from this journey during their next cement test, they would surely be in ss B next semester.
"Evan, watch your front! Ariel is shooting her arrows at 30 intervals from the northwest!"
Milred really did her best to help.
Although, she might have to deduct some points from the groups final total for her excessive intervention.
Allen''s meticulous nning from the beginning reduced the amount of work she had to put in, but she also eventually found her role in the group.
"I''ll take care of the enemying from behind. Move right at the second fork!"
Alexius also did his part, though much more silently.
Allen promised to help him with the attack, but Alexius didnt urge him to fulfill his promise.
After all, Allen had a role in this scene, too.
Even if he didnt fit inpletely, he was together with thema part of the action.
It was quite enjoyable.
The feeling of taking a real adventure was out of the ordinary.
They nearly pushed themselves to the limit, but over the course of a few hours, they had made their way to the depths of the seventh floor.
How many hours had passed?
They had drunk all the potions stored in their inventories, and William healed them until he was exhausted.
In doing so, each far surpassed their preconceived ceiling of potential, and together, they finally defeated the golem that guarded the heart of the bottom floor.
"We''ve finally arrived!
"Now all we have to do is go back
Rumble.
The ruins shook and trembled with the force of an earthquake, and the white book fluttered in the air, as if it had been waiting for this moment.
The book linked to confirms the conditions. The presence of has been recognized! The target associated with is Correction! The presence of Vednir, the Incarnation of Knowledge, has been recognized!
The target is not associated with ! However, there is a possibility of ! Please eliminate the fall !
The conditions have temporarily been met. of (tentative name) is manifested!
? Remove yourself from a 300-meter radius within 3 seconds. Failure will result in strengthened mental barriers and resistance to spatial movement being imposed. Escape from the ruins within the next 17 minutes and 18 seconds.
At that very moment, they heard a loud cry wail.
A cry from a being who seemed to have finallye to their senses.
"Ah"
The exiled incarnation had awoken.
* * *
Jaqnelle closed his eyes and slowly went over what he knew of the ruins in his mind.
"Hmm I just don''t know why."
His sensing range was 234,375 meters, or about 234 kilometers, a radius vast enough to allow for the full and thorough examination of a small ind.
Although he didnt dwell on the details due to the overwhelming amount of information that flooded into his head, there werent many beings that could manage to escape his eyes. One would be hard-pressed to argue otherwise.
"But"
Whing!
The eight rings in his chest resonated with each other, ready to emerge at a moments notice.
Although they had focused their senses on the area where the students had copsed to capture as many details as possible, they had found nothing.
"Could it be that theres a new trap?"
He was an early-stage Rank 8. It may not be enough considering that most of Top Eight''s skills were at theter stages of Rank 8 or 9, but that didnt mean that he was weak. Even if he were to expand his senses to epass the entire world, with his skills, everything would be in the palms of his two, no four hands.
Regardless of how many secrets the world held, he could really not even figure out the workings of a single trap?
"Strange. Ruins are said to have many secrets hidden within, but this is especially strange."
Although Jaqnelle had a bad feeling, he didnt worry all that much, as it was amon urrence for him.
He was one of the strongest living beings in the world, a title that made him constantly worry about who he was going to attack, not who was going to attack him.
"Was it Professor Dellunes turn next? Anyway, it''s almost time, so I''ll call him like I promised
That was why he was a little bit off his game.
"and chat about ranks or
"Honestly, I was waiting, you know. "
Stab.
He reacted a little toote to the attack.
Gasp! "Who are you?!"
"Oh, that was a little shallow, huh?"
The ball of light burst outward like an explosion, creating a radiant wall.
A mysterious woman leisurely strolled from the vast curtain. She shed a bizarre smile, licking the de that stabbed Jaqnelle.
"Do you recognize my face? It''s me, the one whos been stuck in this dump for thest few years. Or dont you remember?"
Rumble, rumble.
The ruins began to quake.
Her smile gradually faded as Jaqnelle stood on alert, watching her with a stiff face.
"Youve forgotten me already? That''s okay. I''ll remind you. The Silent Dagger, the Master of the Darkness, the Sneaking Serpent"
As she continued, Jaqnelle''s expression gradually changed.
"Bjorna. I lost everything because of you. Now Im nothing but an old lioness who has nothing left but a thirst for revenge. Roar."
"What?" Her voice rang clear in his ears, lodging itself within despite the loud vibrations surrounding them. "Don''t lie to me! She was just an old woman
"I had my work cut out for me because of you, you know?"
Sheughed yfully, but Jaqnelle could notugh.
If what she was saying were true, it meant that shed escaped at her old age, and if not, that shed regained her youth by some means.
"Believe me now? Your propensity for skepticism remains the same as always, I see. Now that weve finished reacquainting ourselves, would you be so kind as to"
Her body melted into the darkness, the shadows pooling around her.
His sensing ability had already lost her presence.
"just die?
The former member of Top Eight whom Jaqnelle had defeated.
The loser who epted her defeat in their battle three years ago.
The Queen Of Dunscaith had returned.
* * *
A short distance away from the bases of the Minima and Arachni tribes.
Under the ckened sky and a moon rising full and blue, the campy in eerie quiet.
Most of the young tribe members had been dispatched for guide duty, and the remaining members had spent thest few days readying the special ''preparations''. The only other people in the camp were those with limited mobility. Them, and the Chief of the Minima tribe.
A few people stood upying the tent of Chief Arachni, who was himself away from the others in preparation for the ceremony.
"Thus, it is our understanding that the time will likely be tonight, or not long after. Perhaps at dawn."
"Good work."
"No, sir! May all this be for the glory of the wandering stars!"
"Very well, go and get ready."
As the young tribal member stepped out of the tent, the chief''s wrinkled eyes turned to the sky.
His eyes seemed to gaze not at the ceiling of the tent, but at the night sky beyond it.
"So the meteor is descending
Chapter 86
Chapter 86
From the moment they discovered this was the ce from the revtion, they searched everything they could to identify the purpose of the knowledge theyd been given. In the process, they seeded in understanding the meaning behind the name of this ce sought after by the tribesmenthe Ness of Stars.
"The Ness of Stars, huh. Ness of Stars What a fitting name."
A ness usually referred to a promontory or heanda protruding area ofnd surrounded by the sea on three sides.
But where could there be such a ce in the desert?
From this, they also surmised that it would be referring to a ce in veilednguage or metaphor. With such a unique name, they expected that it would be a ruins site of some sort.
However, they never could have imagined that Ness of Stars might have a literal meaning.
"Wow, a shooting star!"
"Look, a meteor! Theres a meteor falling! Hurry ande see!"
"I told you! It''s today! Am I finally freed from calcting theet''s cycle?
There was an audible murmuring from outside the camp, vocalizing the admiration of the Academys cadets.
Thousands of meteors showered down from the night sky, trailing their long tails behind.
At the same time, the ground began to tremble.
Rumble, rumble.
"Wh-what!"
"Is this an earthquake?"
"Run! Where are the professors? Where is Master Jaqnelle?!"
The tribal chief quietly closed his eyes as his old body shook with the earth.
"It has begun."
In a short while, both the wishes of the stars and the wishes of the tribe would be fulfilled.
The ruins, once buried deep, now protruded out of the ground as an ind.
The earth rumbled, and countless screams rose in chorus.
Out of the sky poured a sea of stars.
The stars themselves began to ripple around the ruins.
* * *
The floor, the walls, the ceiling.
Everything around them began to quake.
? Remove yourself from a 300-meter radius within 3 seconds. Failure will result in strengthened mental barriers and resistance to spatial movement being imposed. Escape from the ruins within the next 17 minutes and 18 seconds.
It came from out of the blue.
Allen eximed without thinking too far into it. There was no time for hesitation.
3 seconds.
"Get out of here!"
"Allen, what are you
"Let''s talk about what''s going on for a second
The flustered expression of his team members captured his gaze. Allen flung himself into action. It was a waste of time to even try persuading them.
"I''ll exinter!"
He gathered up as much of his physical strength as possible. But not without wrestling out the escape artifact hed kept tucked in his pocket.
''Its just as I thought it isnt working.
Allen bit his lips, sensing the urgency of the situation, and grabbed onto the nearby Milred.
2 seconds.
"Allen, what''s going on!
"Sorry."
"Argh!"
She was hurled far down the passage without time to form a coherent decision.
Next up was Alexius, looking up at the sky as if something hed been waiting for had finally arrived. Allen dragged the guide behind him.
"Ill hear you outter."
"Underst"
He wasnt given the chance to finish his sentence before his body rose and flew away like Milreds.
1 second.
Evan and Ariel were together a little further away, and William had also moved a short distance away to recover his physical strength.
''If it''s impossible to get all three, then!''
Crash!
His heavy footprints engraved themselves into the hard floor. An exponentially elerated body shot toward William.
The target of the spontaneous plot opened his mouth with a bewildered look. But he was ignored. A bted exnation would have to do.
Allen grabbed him and threw him toward the other end of the space, where Ariel and Evan were located.
"Ahhhhhhh!"
Williams cry stretched across the room until the very moment Evan and Ariel safely caught him.
0 seconds.
The air rippled.
Allens vision faltered for a moment, shaking his consciousness.
Thousands of threads unfurled from Allen''s body, resisting the space-shift.
Pop!
A momentter, Allen opened his eyes to see Milred picking herself up after having tumbled across the floor.
Ariel, William, and Evan had disappeared somewhere.
Just as she was about to say something, a white light enveloped her, as if the artifact had btedly activated.
Realizing that she couldnt resist the transportation, she began to say, "Be careful!"
And then, she disappeared.
Allen looked toward Alexius and realized that he, too, seemed to have been transported without even the chance to get to his feet.
''It isnt disappearing this time either, huh.''
Examining the white book revealed that, unlike in the witch''s forest, the sentences visible there emitted a clear presence that showed no signs of smudging or fading away.
Storm-pale
Wind-withered
The hawk bleached white by the wind
A dear friend of the Nameless One who would stand atop the ashes. The Incarnation of Wisdom, akin to the original pair of ravens.
Vedrfolnir has awakened.
A new sentence had appeared.
* * *
* * *
By the time theyd processed the tremor that shook the ruins, it was already toote.
"W-wait, this is
"What happened
"The artifact was activated!
Pop!
The group members were enveloped into bursts of white light before they could grasp the situation.
When Julius realized that all the members of his team had disappeared, he quickly checked his Quest Window.
Kill the ancient monster sealed in the ruins and prevent disaster yourself! Time limit: 2:17:18.
Reward: Fragment of truth(???)
"Almost two hours left Theres plenty of time.
Megaruins held precious treasures that fit their theme hidden within their depths. Very few people knew about megaruins since they rarely appeared and, when they did, werent explored as deeply as they could be, either.
However, he knew just how much Heisel benefited from this piece of knowledge in the original novel, so Julius had been looking for a chance to separate himself from his team members, anyway.
''I need to grab it for myself. Its now or never.
Julius had to find the Hidden Piece.
Although these ruins are a little different from the ordinary ones
There still had to be treasure somewhere.
That was thew of the ruins.
It had never been proven wrong in the original novel.
I initially thought that just locating it would be the biggest obstacle, but
That was no longer the case.
"Dongdong,e out."
He tapped on the bag he was carrying at his elbow. A bundle of white fur promptly poked its head out, then jumped energetically out of the bag.
Gyaho! Gyaho!
"Dongdong, let''s go to the most precious thing here. Wherever the thing with the highest value is.
Gyaho?
"Well, something that isn''t just a gold coin, but still an object, um Wait, give me a moment.
Julius raised the bundle of fur to eye level, then put his forehead against Dongdongs so their physical connection could ovee themunication barrier.
Ancient ruins.
Thew of the ruins.
A treasure of high value.
The only one in existence.
It could be a magic book, a living doll, or even the blueprint for a secret weapon.
Julius''s thoughts were conveyed to Dongdong verbatim.
"Do you understand now?
Dongdong was also a god. A young god, to be sure, but he had special abilities, nevertheless.
The god from the Heavenly Forest had the power to grant that which a person may desire.
What about Dongdong?
''The ability to uncover treasure.''
Right now, Dongdong could only search for treasures around him, but if he grew up well, he might be able to locate treasures that had so far only appeared in legends.
Perhaps even the weapons that were only mentioned by name in the original novel.
Gyaho! Gyaho!
"Good! Let''s go!"
Dongdong began to jump, the fur ball bouncing around with vigor.
Ill let the boss get to the Hidden Piece first, and then I''ll figure it out there or something, I guess.
Finding it quickly wouldnt result in a greater reward, and the useful main and supporting actors would survive on their own.
They wouldnt die in vain.
"The rest of them should pull their own weight.
It was none of his business.
* * *
Ariel drew her bow, ignoring the pain at her fingertips.
Fwish.
"Guaghhh!"
"Garrrrg!"
Gargle, gargle!
Guardians swarmed around them frantically. There seemed to be no end to the monsters joining in.
They had fallen somece in the ruins as a result of the sudden space-shift.
Fortunately, they had all been together and stayed that way after the transport, but for some reason, the escape artifact didn''t work.
"Evan! Hang in there!"
"Cough, I got it! I can hold out as long as I feel like it, so rx!"
Evan moved desperately toward one of the narrow crossroads.
Baroque Style Arcane Technique - Dew ws.
Wolves hunted alone. His body became abnormally fast, his movements growing quicker and quicker until even his afterglow was visible.
The blue line darting in his wake blocked the passage.
"A little more! A little more!
He executed his typical mana-driven attack with everything he had. Green magic gathered in the corner of his eye, connecting with the arrows.
The Hail family''s arrows rained down.
Hail Style Arcane Technique - Downpour.
"Evan, get back now!"
An arrow flew right over where his eyes had just been situated.
Another wave of arrows swept over the crowds of monsters and guardians.
Crash!
Fragments hailed down and punctured holes that rippled across the sea of monsters.
Screeeeech!
The lifeless guardians met the same fate.
A gap formed in the center of the hurricane of foes.
"Ariel, don''t overdo it
"Please be quiet!"
William shut himself up at her cry. Hisplexion was pale, as hed been severely injured from the attack of a guardian right next to him when theyd first been transported.
"If I don''t overdo it now, when will I ever?"
One more shot. Then another, and one more.
She only had so many arrows. There was a limit to the number of foes she could finish off.
To survive this, to hold out, they had to cut down their enemies numbers. However, her reality was different from her ideal.
"One more shot Blergh."
She vomited blood, having overworked her mana cirction. William hurriedly healed her.
Visibly exhausted, she said, "How long have we been here?
"Its"
William hesitated and finally answered.
"It''s only been ten minutes."
"That''s all?
They wouldntst long at this rate.
She looked back up to see Evan fall back, unable to hold out with the momentary loss of support. With one final blow, he stepped back and roughly ripped off the ne he was wearing.
"Baroque!"
His shout summoned arge m from the ne, sitting upright and blocking the passage.
"Evan, what?"
"Its an ancient relic my family gave me. The m is supposed to be used as shelter to hide in
He shrugged his shoulders and tried to smile.
"What else can we do if all three of us can''t go inside? I have no choice but to use it like this."
Ariel felt a slight bit of relief thanks to him. Soon after, she opened her mouth with a serious expression.
"What shall we do now?
"There have been other cases like ours during this practice raid, so the rescue team should being. Even if they arent, there are professors who came to the ruins, so Im sure well see them soon."
Since this happened on the seventh floor of the ruins, could they afford to send a rescue team straight away?
How would the professors know they were here?
William replied, trying to suppress all his anxiety, "How many times has something like this happened at the Academy? Im sure it''ll be alright."
"Really? You think so?
"Yes, absolutely."
At William''s serious expression, Ariel immediately smiled as if she had lost the energy to worry, and said yfully, "William, are you trying to flirt with me? I mean, I was kind of thinking the same thing, too, you know?
"Now, stop joking around. Isn''t this an emergency?
William blushed. Ariel looked at him cutely and nodded.
"Lets hang out again after all this."
"I"
"Just the two of us."
Unable to find anything to say in response, William could only nod quietly.
"Yeah, lets do that."
Theyd weaved a bubble around them, onepletely at odds with their perilous reality. Evan, who had been silent until that point, spoke in a grave tone.
"William."
"Evan, it''s not that I don''t understand the situation. Its just, I''m gonna catch my breath for a second
At Ariel''s rushed excuse, Evan shook his head.
Someonesing."
"What?"
"Someone ising this way."
At the end of the passage, from the same direction of the endless swarms of the monsters and guardians of the ruins, a bundle of white fur and another figure stepped out of the darkness.
His hair was that familiar bright blue and his face full of youth.
"Oh, there''s someone here?
Gyaho?
There was hope.
* * *
"Establish a stronghold!"
"Where are the professors?!
"More importantly, take the wounded! Can''t you see his wounds?
The students'' voices were rising.
That spectacr view of thousands of meteors falling across the sky was nothing short of superb. However, nobody was watching the scene at present.
It was chaos on earth.
They had thought that once the earthquake and its tremors had ceased, that everything would be over, but that was unfortunately just wishful thinking.
Shortly after the earthquake, guardians and monsters from the ruins began to pour out of the entrance.
The professors who had gone down into the ruins were left uninformed on the situation, and the whereabouts and activities of the remaining professors were unknown.
Therefore, it was up to the upperssmen students who had gone through a short training program to lead their juniors through this cmity.
They remained as calm as they could, fending off attacks from centering from the four spire entrances.
Fortunately, the rate of damage done was decreasing thanks to their quick response, but the number of enemies was most certainly not.
"Miss, there are students over there!
"Okay, calm down.
Rachael''s role was to retrieve the students who used their escape artifact and bring them to safety.
It was a role that only she could y, what with her familys trademark space-shifting magic.
"sh."
A yellow light flickered.
She deftly maneuvered through the spatial transportation that even Allen still found difficult to manage, and approached the students who had just escaped.
"What the hell happened?
"Julius! Julius! Hey, where did you go?"
"You all are"
Still mindlessly caught up in her routine, she paused.
Although she couldn''t make out their faces in the darkness, these had to be members of Julius''s group.
"The supplementary ss?"
Aveline raised her head at Rachael''s murmur.
"Yes, maam! There''s another kid with us named Julius, but we don''t know where he is
"I''ll talk to you again a littleter."
She noticed a nearby monster and used her magic.
A yellow mist seemed to envelop their bodies, before she opened her mouth.
"sh."
Blink.
In an instant, the scene around them changed, thendscape around thempletely different.
Rachael frowned for a moment, as if she had used a lot more magic than intended, and opened her mouth.
"So, what were you going to say?
"Well, there''s a member of our group named Julius, and we think he''s still in the ruins somewhere," Aveline said in a rather urgent, yet still respectful tone, like she didnt have the courage to speak informally to her senior.
Rachael looked at her thoughtfully for a moment and nodded. "Okay. I''ll talk to the rescue team, so go rest for now."
She sent them to the back where the healers were located, saying that no matter what they had to tell her, treatment had toe first. Someone could check on them there and choose to send them back to the frontlines, or assign them a different role.
''Allen, I hope you''re safe.
She had never gotten the chance to see him, thinking she would disturb him and his team during the practice. After the first incident urred, though, she urgently tried to find him, but could not. Instead, she only found a few of his team members.
They said he was on the seventh floorthe lowest floorbefore triggering the artifact.
A rescue team, a search party. Anything would be fine.
She just needed a reason to go down there.
She quickly headed to where the upperssmen were.
This was the only way she could help him.
Chapter 87
Chapter 87
The seventh floor, the lowest floor of the megaruins.
There existed no ce more deste than the great hall.
Gloomy light illuminated the cold, gray walls, along with the cracks littered across the architecture, and even the remains of defeated golems.
A golem the size of a hill rolled to the floor with all three of its cores destroyed.
Allen calmly assessed the situation.
He had expected something rted to the demons to appear. He just hadnt expected it to be so significant.
Yeah, that was all there was to it.
Then, why did he feel so flustered?
Start first with what''s in front of you.
He suppressed his worries about his vanished team members. Worrying wouldnt change anything.
There was still time, enough for Allen to examine his surroundings a little bit.
''First of all, is this space rted to those tremors?
He wasnt sure if the earthquake had urred because of their shift into that location, or if the timing just happened to line up by chance.
However, judging by Alexius''s knowing look, he assumed that thetter was correct.
''That doesn''t mean the former possibility is irrelevant.
There must have been a reason why the white book told him to escape.
Allen rid himself of those thoughts and examined the walls and ceiling. Engraved into them were murals. Unfortunately, though, the scratched traces didnt provide him any useful information.
Allen turned his head while still looking at the murals.
"Do you have any ideas?
Well, it''s probably a monster from before the Great Fall, from when I was still alive.
Sensing that there were no wandering eyes in the area, she immediately rose into the air. The end of the sheath fluttered, perhaps d to have finally moved after such a long time.
"Not even the ancient empire, but an earlier one?"
Yes. I mean, I don''t know for sure but I have a little bit of a guess.
The depictions in the remaining murals were somewhat recognizable.
A monster in the basement of arge stronghold, with soldiers standing above it. And a meteor shower descending from the sky.
After that, a picture of the underground monster going on a violent rampage.
The way the monsters depiction was rather grotesque, as if to warn someone against releasing the monster by mistake.
The other murals were badly damaged, to the point of being unrecognizable.
Its name is
Vedrfolnir.
Vedr How did you know that?! She jerked around, as if startled, and flew in closer.
Noting her reaction, Allen took a step back. He had to make an excuse. He had no intention of telling her the secret of the white book yet.
"I just remember reading it in a book that I found in the library.
Ah from the library. So do you know anything else?
He felt the strength drain from her voice after he answered. Allen shook his head.
"No, I don''t. Only its name was mentioned. And I only said the name because I remembered that it was rted to an ancient monster."
Well, we might be able to find other information around here somewhere. Seeming to have calmed down, she continued, her voice returned to normal. Then what do you want to do?
"Well"
There was still more time.
Maybe a little over 10 minutes now?
I was surprised when I heard that real cry. I thought I was going to have a heart attack. It''s been so long since Ist heard it.
The ruins continued to vibrate, and he could hear the asional echoes of something taking ce from afar.
But nothing ever came toward where Allen was.
Why don''t we get out of here already? I don''t think it''s a good sign that the tremors are getting bigger.
"Thats a good id
Allen stopped talking.
In an instant he lowered his posture and seized Ves.
Allen?
Someone had stepped into his sensing range.
Is it one personing our way? No, it''s two. One is humanor at least, shaped like a human? What''s the other one?
Strength circted throughout his body, as he released his threads from his pounding heart.
It was his first time properly holding a sword in a long time. He had be overly sensitive to the feeling of it, unfamiliar with the touch. The sensations stung his skin, so concentrated he was on his built-up senses.
''Our opponent has an enormous amount of magic.
Not quite on the same level as himself, but easily several times that of the typical Academy student.
The foe began to elerate in speed, as if it felt Allen''s presence.
His threads wove together. It was enough to just keep his eyes on the new enemy for a while. The threads instantly wove into green-blue des, flying through the passage.
At that very moment, a storm of lightning bolts shed.
Boom!
The des that had pierced through the darkness of the passage were crushed in an instant, shattered by dark blue thunderbolts. As they scattered into clouds of debris, he felt his body, rooted to the hard floor, begin to lose strength.
Mental warfare? No way
The escape artifact would have been triggered unless in a special ce like this. It wouldn''t be possible to avoidnot unless his opponent had foreseen this situation.
Seeing his opponent approach, Allen wanted to escape from the reality of his situation for a moment. However, the second he saw his opponente into view, he had to stop fleeing.
"Julius."
The opponent also looked confused for a moment, immediately lowering his sword.
"Brother!"
Gyaho!
Dongdong cried, as if to not be forgotten.
* * *
* * *
He looked at Julius as he approached.
Across top of the Academy uniform, he wore arge bag, bulging as if he had packed something inside.
"How did you No, I wont even ask. There must be a reason youre here, right?"
It was obvious.
There was a Quest rted to this.
Allen stopped himself from frowning at the realization.
''There wasnt anything like this in the ck book.
Julius, as written in the ck book, was meant to be on his own in the ruins.
There was nothing to say.
The future had changed, and thus, Julius had received a Quest that hadnt been included in the original story.
''Now itll be more difficult to predict his moves.
Allen felt uneasy and disappointed at the fact.
He could still get a rough read of situations since Julius was typically fairly predictable in his way of thinking. Plus, Allen still understood his overarching motives. But there was a difference between having a rough idea and being certain.
Of course, having ess to information through the ck book still gave Allen a great advantage. Knowing what someone would do before they did it meant being able to stay one step ahead.
Recognizing his growing dependence, he tried to look back on his memories from the first time around before regressing, but he realized that he was still unconsciously relying on the ck book.
"Oh, that Yes, that''s right, Brother."
Julius nodded hurriedly, mentally throwing away the excuses he had prepared.
There was no need to makeme excuses if the other person understood the situation.
"Then why are you here, Brother?"
"I was moving toward the seventh floor with the goal of getting through in the shortest time, and then, something happened."
Allen made no secret of the events that had taken ce. After all, any lie he told here would be exposed when they met up with Milred and Alexiuster.
"As the ruins were shaking, a space-shift suddenly urred. It didn''t trigger the artifact, though. Only a few from my team escaped. I don''t know if the other members of my team are alive or not. Im fine, though, as you can see."
Julius had a slight grasp of Allen''s abilities, so he didnt doubt him. "What are you going to do, then?"
"Escape, of course. Is there any reason to feel all these tremors and still stay here?"
The tremors shaking the ruins were gradually increasing in magnitude.
Rumble, rumble.
"Then how?
Allen couldn''t answer.
His escape artifacts hadnt been working since he was transported.
That was the problem.
It took dozens of hours to get down here.
But they only had about a dozen minutes left.
Or at least, that was his estimate.
"Julius, do you have an escape artifact on you?"
Julius shook his head. They would have no choice but to deal with the boss once it appeared. Even then, he only thought of taking advantage of the confusion to find the Hidden Piece.
His artifact should be somewhere rolling on the floor next to his bed.
But he couldnt just say that.
"My artifact isnt working either haha."
"Well, in that case"
Should he just raze his way back up through the ruins?
Allenpared the strength of the floor where he stood to that of the floor hed seen and examined earlier. Even if the walls and the ceilings of the ruins were fractured, they could definitely withstand Allens force, even with the added power of the giant.
The passing of thousands of years could not weather the ruins.
''Of course, it might be possible with an attack using my time-maniption magic at full power, but
Did he need to go that far?
The uncontroble force would surely startle Julius, and there was a possibility that his attitude would change as a result of witnessing that.
That would form a crack in his perception of and rtionship with Allen. That was thest thing Allen wanted.
''A rtionship without a single moment of suspicion.''
One that was ideal, altruistic, and entirely artificial.
A brother who would go as far as sharing a single bean, like in those moral-building nursery rhymes.
That was the image Allen was trying to build for Julius.
"Brother, if there is no way, why don''t you try to break through the ceiling and go up that way. If you stay here and the ruins copse Julius shook his head as if he didn''t even want to imagine it.
"Certainly, but thats too dangerous. Wouldn''t it be better to try to find another way?"
"Well, still
"Now that I think of it, was there nothing in the passage you entered from?
Julius looked at the direction where he came in without thinking, and his expression morphed, as if something had suddenly urred to him. He shook his head and pointed awkwardly at the direction from which Allen had appeared.
"There is no clear path in the direction I came from, and it''s filled with monsters and guardians, too. It would be better to go the way you came."
Sensing something odd about his response, Allen extended his sensing range for a moment and scanned the direction in which Julius entered. Julius watched him with a nervous expression.
There were indeed rough traces of other monsters and guardians.
''I don''t think he lied.''
But why was he making that face?
Allen soon shook his head, focusing on the present situation.
"But if the ruins copse, were as good as trapped."
"Like I said, I think itd be better to try and break the ceiling to escape."
"Are you sure?"
"We have to try
Julius pet Dongdong for no reason in response to Allen''s question. Dongdong pleasantly enjoyed his touch.
Allen was torn.
Is it right to reveal more of my hand? Or, how can I reverse the trap to manipte it again, like how I got here in the first ce? Why didn''t I prepare for this?''
Hed had too much trust in the Academy.
They had two members of the Top Eight and hundreds of years of history. Allen let his guard down, lulled into a false sense of security, thinking they would be provided for by the Academy despite this being a real ruins site.
That said, they were able to deal with the attack by the Cirction.
That would-be mishap was already in the past, but it still almost happened. Apart from that, the incidents and idents that urred every year at the Academy were still formidable. They were only settled by the Academy''s quick response and appropriatepensation.
After thinking it over for a while, Allen began to formte countermeasures.
''Theres no other way. I have to reveal my time-maniption magic.
He adapted his physical abilities to the level of an ordinary knight. Even that much was enormous, but it wouldnt be enough to catch Juliuss eye.
His eyes were still focused on the original novel.
The moment Allen had made his decision and moved to speak, he heard dozens of footsteps. It was as though he had waited just long enoughthe kind of perfect timing one only encountered in novels.
"Allen, are you there?
"Hey! Hey! Julius!"
Allen''s head turned toward the familiar voice. Julius also murmured in a questioning tone.
"Rachael?"
"Huh? Aveline?"
As if to erase away what had be too improbable of a situation, a solution had been plotted out in an instant.
As if it were destiny, they No
Julius.
Julius had been saved by some kind of divine luck. Like the main character of a novel.
Julius waved his hand, face just delighted at the happy coincidence.
"Oh Aveline, you''re here?"
"You little shit! What are you doing here?"
Allen just stared quietly at the figure.
Like a hunter looking for his opportunity to shoot.
Chapter 88
Chapter 88
"What sort of people would do this!"
Malvern, the professor of water currents, waved his hands frantically in a burst of anger.
Waves rose above him ording to his will, casting arge shadow on the ground, and crashed into the white barrier that defined the boundaries of their confined space.
Thete Rank 6 sorcerers earnest attack surged.
Crash!
But it was to no avail.
The wall shone a bright light in response to the contact, then blocked the effect of his magic, not budging even a centimeter.
"Oh, my God!"
Thus, the magic equivalent to the force of hundreds of soldiers'' scattered, bursting into white bubbles of no consequence.
"Theyre using relics on us here?
As he vented his anger at the barrier that had blocked his numerous attacks, ich, the professor of the illusory system of magic beside him, opened his mouth and said politely, "Enough of this, Malvern. Youre simply wasting your energy."
"Professor ich, are you not angry?"
Malvern turned his head, expression furious, while ich opened his eyes and asked back, "What would you have me do? There''s nothing we can do, is there? Letting out your anger in such a counterproductive way is resolving what exactly?
He had tried several times to analyze theposition of the boundaries, but could not ascertain a thing. The relic was simply utilizing its own power rather than any form of maniptable magic.
"That''s true, but
"Now is the time to calm ourselves and find a logical way out."
His calm tone rxed Malvern''s activating spell, which was about to burst forth again. He sighed and apologized, "Ha I''m sorry I got carried away."
"Its alright, I understand."
They were presently trapped in a corner of the ruins, having been isted in space without even noticing before the tremors had broken out. As a result, they had no choice but to remain where they were, unaware of what chaos had taken ce outside.
"No matter how I try to think about it, this really is a grave situation."
"I know. But even if this is umon, once every two or three years
"No, I mean, I don''t think that it''s quite like that. ich shook his head. "Im not entirely sure but I think that, perhaps, the relic was used to separate out us professors specifically.
After the Great Fall, the Temple quickly lost its power. Priests and knights of the castle lost their divine power, their connection to God severed.
During the era of the Temples decline, however, the existence of the Holy Relics was a particrly special marker of the times. They were more powerful than other ancient artifacts, lending users unique abilities to heal, defend, attack, and more.
Although the Temple had fallenand was assumed to only be useful for ceremonies of times pastits previous prestige and capabilities attracted the attention of many forces.
"If not, then why arent we with all the other professors?"
At that, Malvern immediately understood the gravity of the situation.
This must be a n to deal with Master Jaqnelle
"Perhaps it has already been carried out.
What could this all mean?"
"Ha"
Malvern sighed. It was already tootewhatever scheme this was had already run its course. There was no need to hesitate any longer.
With a resolute expression, he pulled out arge bronze goblet from his subspace.
"Then I won''t put it off any longer.
"Archmagic."
The professors at the Academy, no matter how they mighte off in the ssroom, were never stupid. What they taught was their knowledge of the world. No person mired in ipetence could fulfill such a role.
Thus, he did not lose hisposureeven faced with a dire situation such as thisand began to look for the next course of action.
"This will most likely incapacitate me for a few weeks, but I''d rather just brute force the solution now."
"Are you sure you wont regret it, Malvern? When preparing archmagic, all professors must participate. We wont be able to help the students still on the ground
"It''s better than wasting even more time."
He smiled wryly.
It was better to make a move than to worry about the students fighting without them.
In response to Malvern''s decision, ich took out the same goblet.
"Then, I''ll send a signal to the other professors first."
ich cut a shallow gash into his palm, causing drops of blood streamed into the bottom of the bronze goblet. At the same time, the mana hed infused into the drops turned the surface of the cup blue.
Hoooowl.
A translucent wolf arose atop the ss and gave a loud cry.
Malvern gazed over the white wall that blocked them into the space with a wry smile. "Lets hope the damage is minimal.
He hoped that his opponent would arrive as soon as possible.
The bronze sses began to resonate as ich prepared his in the same manner.
Professors, held captive throughout the ruins just the same as them, began to prepare the archmagic as well, their bronze goblets all synchronizing in resonance.
* * *
Rumble, rumble, rumble.
The ruins trembled as if they were about to copse, as explosions sounded off in the distance.
As decades-old dust fell from the ceiling, it became increasingly difficult to maintain their bnce on the shaking floor.
Allen and Julius ran down the aisle with their rescue team that had appeared in the nick of time.
Allen questioned how the rescue team got down to the seventh floor at such a rapid pace. However, the answer was simple.
"Is that a magic circle?"
As they ran, a magic circle shone brightly in the corner where the passageway was blocked.
"It''s a space-shift spell, Rachael answered while sticking to Allens side. "A senior in the student council knew about it."
He watched as a man on the rescue team, who appeared to be the aforementioned member of the student council, prepared to invoke the magic circle.
"So they even had that prepared
The Academy had installed space-shift magic circles on each floor just in case, so that groups could move to each floor rtively quickly, even when starting on the ground floor. ording to the rescue team, they were able to quickly descend through the ruins due to that addition.
"Well, how did you know I was here?"
"I ran into the members of your group outside."
Allen was relieved by her answer.
''So, they must have escaped.
They seemed to have exited with a rescue team that had found them first, or perhaps they just managed to escape safely on their own.
Also, where did all the professors go? Why are there only students here?
"It''s just things aren''t going so well right now."
Though they had a secondary goal of rescuing Allen and Julius, the rescue team searched with a primary objective of locating the missing professors.
"We found a ce where we think the professors are but we couldn''t go in because it was surrounded by a white wall of some sortlike a membrane. We had no choice but toe straight here since the ruins appear to be copsing.
"Then where is Jaqnelle?"
"Were really short on time
Allen''s expression sank darkly.
It was clear that the monster sealed within the ruins would soon appear. However, the professors and resident Top Eight member, upied with their own issues, wouldnt be able to help them.
It was clear to him that if someone were to stop the monster, they would immediately stand out.
It was like a stage prepared for the sole purpose of delivering fame to one lucky individual.
"Alright! I''ll activate the magic circle
Rumble, rumble.
The ruins began to violently quake.
A crack split the ground, and from it, something was struggling to emerge.
"Hurry, over here!"
The students gathered quickly around the magic circle.
Just as the intense light of the magic circle began to shine, the crack on the floor began to widen. Allens vision blurred and his head began to ring as the students seemed to ripple through space.
Pop!
What the students who had already escaped outside witnessed was the dramatic copse of the spires.
There were no screams nor shouts heard as the faint smell of blood wafted along the dry winds caress. The sight of the four giant spires tumbling down like the building blocks of a childs toy was too unrealistic.
"Oh, oh! It''s copsing!"
"I-is it over, then?
With the copse of the ruins, no more guardians coulde out. In other words, all they would have to do now was work together to clear those that remained on the battlefield. The students watched this scene unfold with hope. And yet, the shaking of the ruins did not stop.
"W-wait a minute, the ground!
Rather, the ground continued to shake harder and harder, to the point where it was difficult to stand upright. A hopeful smile crossed Julius''s face. Figures d in white and ck passed through the gaps between the students.
The vibration of the ground grew more and more unstable until the critical point had finally been reached.
He''sing.
Allen lowered his stance.
Rumble, rumble, rumble!
A huge shadow rose from beneath the ground. From sprawling wings, a sandy wind blew violently forth. Allen raised his head to see the monsters figure under the pouring stars.
A hawk of pitch-ck, cut straight from the shadows, gazed down at the ground, and around the birds body whipped a whirlwind of white. A great silence fell upon the earth.
After thousands of years, the ancient monster had been released once more.
* * *
* * *
Allen had been waiting for this moment.
He kicked off the ground, as Julius readied his sword and an apanying thunderbolt.
Yet still, there were others ready before them.
"Wake up!" eximed the chief of the Minima tribe.
Allen spun around to find the Minima and Arachni tribes in front of the crowd of students.
d in white and ck, they began to move with gs raised, drawing constetions in the eyes of the monster gazing upon them from above.
The men in white became Scorpio.
The women in ck became Arachne.
The constetion on the gs they were holding shone brightly, causing pale blue chains to appear and soar into the sky. Hundreds flew up and wrapped around the monster''s body as it looked down on the ground.
"Pull!"
At the tribal chiefs cry, the ruler of the sky began to plummet to the ground. Vedrfolnir screamed and struggled violently.
The white whirlwind whipped itself violently around the beast, shaking the hundreds of chains.
As the tension rose, the tribal chief shouted, "Now!"
The chiefs shout was directed at the students. Allen''s head turned to the source of his voice. For a split second, it seemed as if their eyes met.
It almost seemed in that moment that the shouting was not directed to other students, but rather, to himself and Julius.
I''m not worried. This is simply fate at work.
Their past encounter shed across his mind, causing the corners of his mouth to twist.
Fate, huh
What nonsense.
Allen didnt believe in fate. For the past, the present, nor the future.
But there was no time to waste.
"Julius!
"Lets go!"
Julius sent a thunderbolt hurtling through the air at Allen''s signal. A small, dark cloud formed in the sky as streams of dark-blue thunderbolts interweaved in the air. The lightning gathered amplified the thunderbolt atop his sword.
Crash!
The thunderbolt-ridden de ran along the monsters ck wings. Before it could make contact, a gust of wind burst forth, halving the des power. However, its impact was not entirely offset.
Vedrfolnir cried.
The high note pierced their ears. Dozens of students copsed, their spells dispersing. But that, too, was only a brief setback.
Rumble, rumble.
"What''s that sound?"
One of the students who was still fighting off the remaining guardians of the ruins turned his head, his expression hardening at the sight ahead.
Beyond the horizon of descending darkness, sand fluttered about and stirred.
Gurgle, gurgle!
"Grrrrrrr!
Screeeeeech!
All the monsters around the ruins began to gather.
"Hey! Half of you continue fighting off the guardians, and the other half, follow me!"
The third-year charged with directing the students bit his lips and ran toward the oing wave of enemies.
Now slowlying to its senses, Vedrfolnir''s counteroffensive had intensified. The hawkrge enough to obscure the sky was certainly daunting enough to be considered one of the fearful ancient monsters of legend.
Lightning crashed down atop the monster''s head.
Bang!
Allen, what are you doing? Why arent you doing anything? Ves scolded in question as the situation rapidly changed.
Allen shook his head, saying it was nothing. "I was thinking about what would be more efficient against that monstermagic or a sword."
The sword! The sword! I learned something new this time! Should I use that? Itll be over in one shot!
Allen smirked and took up his stance, just as she wished.
The Jotunsberg isposed of a total of nine rainbows. Allencked the talent for swords, so he only learned two.
The Jotunnsverd series wasposed of nine forms. Allen,cking in talent for the sword, had only mastered two.
Managarmr and Ylfaskadus.
The swords skills she taught him deviated from the typical, modern framework of swordsmanship. Hence, why they werent particrly easy to learn. He could only understand her teachings by drawing upon his prior experience as a sorcerer. Had he merely been a normal person, there was no way he would have been able to digest her teachings.
However, before departing for the ruins, he seeded in learning one more, just in time.
The sound of the foghorn rang from Allen''s dragon core. Without even having to draw out his threads, a huge sum of magic was sucked into the sword.
For a moment, his core was empty.
Noticing the shockinglyrge flow of magic, the monster began to struggle. However, it could not escape so easily.
Managarmr channeled the users fury as fuel to charge a single devastating blow.
Ylfaskadus allowed the user to see beyond any shadows and perform numerous attacks at once.
And the third?
Allen exhaled.
His sword moved.
Streaking from down upward, it didnt matter if the sword wouldnt reach the target and make contact. After all, there was no ce where the light could not reach.
Jotunnsverd Ljossol.*
(*PR note: Ljossol is likely a portmanteau of the Old Norse ljoss meaning bright/shining and Sol, the sun personified who is chased by the wolf, Skoll, andter devoured during Ragnarok.)
The ball of light stretched into the sky in the direction of the swords tip. For just a moment, his dragon''s core could not keep up with the speed of mana generation.
It was a skill impossible to use without being a real giant.
"Still"
It wasnt enough.
Allen raised his head.
Beneath the nket of that starry sky, the light of the sun rose from the ground.
* * *
Routine dominated Galshdin Academy, as always.
Atop the roof of the great library, a location where no one in the Academy could climb, someoneid there, looking at the moon.
Glug, glug.
Gaillon, the beast king, was drinking again today, staring at the brightly shining moon.
The smell of alcohol wafted above the strewn bottles, indicating that they might haveid there for a day or two already.
Nevertheless, Gaillon was undeterred.
"It''s time to stop doing this. If it weren''t for that information
He mused, weighing in his mind the amount of wine he had drunk.
Just as he was thought about pouring himself another
Hoool!
His eyes turned toward the resounding sound that only he could hear.
"Huh Is there something going on?"
Gaillon rose from his ce. Even if he drank all the leftover alcohol, he wouldnt really get drunk.
Maybe a little tipsy at best.
"Bothering the elderly tsk."
But duty was duty.
He stamped his foot, recalling the chairmans face.
Crash!
His body elerated instantly as the roof of the great library partially crumbled under him. A scream of surprise rang out from below.
"Well, they interrupted my me time.
It would be fine.
When the chairman finally heard themotion, his new car had already off and disappeared.
Chapter 89
Chapter 89
In an instant, the earth was as bright as day.
The suns light aimed its glow toward the wings of the hawk in the sky. The light exploded forth, bleaching the world white, as the sun devoured the ck shadow.
Bang, bang, bang.
For a blink of time, the monster disappeared as the light expanded, enveloping its figure. Allen opened his eyes that had instinctively shut. As the remnants of the attack faded away, the ancient monster re-emerged.
It was still flying, unharmed.
As if Allens attack had not ruffled nor damaged a single feather, the monster proudly boasted its appearance, its title as the ruler of the sky.
No, the attack hadnt been entirely ineffective.
Allen squinted his eyes. The monster staggered for a moment. It had absorbed some damage.
Vedrfolnir, too, was a creature of flesh and blood. It was just pretending that the attack had been useless, making a show of it so as not to appear weak before its enemies. It had been sealed away for thousands of years, so it wouldnt be at full power, surely. Otherwise, they would have stood no chance against it.
The only monsters of the ancient world were giants and dragons.
Thus, the conclusion was a simple one.
Jotunnsverd Ljossol.
A series of bright suns arose. His dragon''s core screamed. It had been a while since hed felt his heart squeezing in such a way. However, the pain was a familiar one.
"Ves, you said you knew that monster. What are our odds?
Ves''s voice cut through the noise of the battlefield. Considering that it has just been released If you fight alone, Allen maybe thirty percent.
"And if I join forces with Julius?
Ves scanned their surroundings and answered quietly, If you join forces with your brother, it''s a fifty-fifty shot Maybe.
Allen was satisfied with that. Why would he insist on fighting Julius?
If it was an option that would increase their odds, hed take it.
Ugh, this is so annoying. Argh! Julius shouted.
The imprint of the lightning bolt embedded on his lower abdomen burned hot. Dark blue lightning darted together in the form of a spear.
"Come on! Get down here, you little fucker!"
[Astrapi (A)]*
(PR note: [Astrapi] means lightning strike in Ancient Greek.)
His lightning condensed into a single bolting streak.
Crash!
The monsters wings spewed out ck blood as they were torn even further, having already been hit several times. When the ck droplets finally reached the desert below, the blood melted the sand.
Vedrfolnir crashed to the ground.
Yet even in that moment, the monstrous hawk fought back. The white storm enveloping its body now finally shook off the chain that had hindered its movements.
Already struggling to maintain their small grasp of control over the beast, the Minima and Arachni tribes fell back and dispersed.
Landing on the ground, Vedrfolnir spread its wings wide and cast its enemies a mocking expression. The white whirlwind began to blow everywhere.
Allen lost his footing in the raging wind. Second form. Ylfaskadus. Behind each step, a dazzling shadow followed. Allen burrowed through the veil of the ck night.
Julius used a flurry of blue shes of lightning to draw the monster''s attention. Between them, a shadow crept in. The one who had melted into the shadow stabbed the monster in its blind spot.
The perfect attack for putting all umted anger into use as fuel.
First form. Managarmr.
His red de elerated, aiming for the base of his opponents wings.
Thwack.
However, Allen''s blow failed to prate the monster''s thick skin, deflected by the durable, slippery feathers.
Vedrfolnirs eyes burned with a ferocious glow, a biting wind bursting outward in all directions.
The sharp gust tore through the shadows. Allen was out of striking range before he could register it.
So ordinary attacks wouldnt work?
Allenughed. That attack could even fell a giant. But somehow, it couldnt cut through feathers?
"How did the era of these monsterse to an end?"
I don''t know. Maybe the giants and the dragons killed each other off? Ves pondered in a vague way.
The magic from his dragon''s core gathered into a thread and wove throughout the space. There was no need to be discouraged just because one close-quarters attack didn''t work.
Long-range attacks were his specialty, after all.
His thread gradually grew longer and longer, entangling back onto itself. In the meantime, thunder and lightning continued to rain down.
Crash!
FUUUUCK!
Julius''s eyes turned bloodshot when his attack didntnd. He was dumbfounded. His quest was to kill this?
There was no need for Allen to surrender. His first priority should be to get help and kill the monster.
Mana gathered at Juliuss lightning bolt mark. Another thunderstorm gathered. When he kicked off the ground, the sand underneath hardened into molten ss, then shattered.
Bang!
Through his peripherals, he could see Allen preparing his next attack. Julius gathered the lightning in his hands, sending off another quick strike.
[Keraunos (A)]*
(*PR note: [Keraunos] means thunderbolt in Ancient Greek.)
The long whip cut through the air at a rate faster than sound, wrapping around the monster''s body. For an instant, its movements halted. A downpour of lightning shot out from the sky.
Boom! Crash! Bang!
The earth bowed as the sky let out a thunderous roar.
"Allen!"
At Julius''s call, Allen finished his creation with cold eyes. One side of the thread remained between his fingers. The side of the thread that dragged on the floor chained it to the ground.
At Julius''s call, Allen finished his creation with cold eyes. One end of the thread remained grasped between his fingers. It swooped down, dragging along the sand below, then chained itself to the ground.
The other end of the thread turned into a ck sword and shot toward the monster.
"Brother, I can
Allen shook his head.
"I''ll give you a little break."
Allen flicked his fingers, popping the chain out from the sandy expanse and tangling up the monster''s legs. It was clear from its pping wings that the monster was embarrassed from being caught off guard.
All the while, the ck sword struck the monster''s body in the sky. Even if they couldnt take it out immediately, they could still chip away at it little by little.
Vedrfolnir shook in response to the attack and screamed.
Allen hadpleted his rough analysis of Vedrfolnir.
An ancient monster somehow rted to the wind. It instinctively manipted the wind, and was now in an unreasonably powerful state. Its body could not be prated by most attacks, and its blood was highly acidic. It could fly, and there was a strong possibility it possessed recovery abilities of some sort.
I dont know what abilities its still hiding, but based on what Ive seen so far, we arent the best suited to deal with it.''
Considering the type of magic he used, it would be difficult for Allen to inflict meaningful damage on it unless he went toe-to-toe with it in closebat. He didnt currently possess the skills necessary to single-handedly take down this opponent.
"Oh, I see!"
Greed shed through Julius''s eyes. No matter how difficult the task, he wanted toplete the quest. His reward would be a fragment of truthof course he was curious.
He couldnt resist the opportunity to get in a powerful strike.
"Brother, please hold it steady for a moment!"
"Alrigh"
Allen cut himself off.
A spell of overwhelming magnitude had begun to strike. The spell originated from within Julius''s bag. Julius took arge jar out of the bag he had thrown onto the ground.
''Did he go back into the ruins to get that?
Allens expression didnt hide his exasperation at Juliuss greed. Had he really gone back down and risked his life for treasure?
He hadnt even thought up a way out of the ruins.
"Ah, geez. I was gonna do thister. And Im not the best with spirits, anyway."
He murmured a few more words and began to focus his lightning into the jar. It began to tremble as the lightning was injected in, and soon began to break.
Id have been able to sign a full contract if Id gone to the real Spring of Spirits, fuck.
Julius grimaced as if recalling something, and then concentrated even more on the lightning when the jar finally appeared to crack.
* * *
* * *
At that moment, his entire field of vision flooded with light.
Bang!
The jar shattered open.
From the broken jar emerged the upper body of a giant, its body translucent and features obscured. At the giants core, the lightning that Julius had injected into the jar was gathered into a ball.
Vedrfolnir began to glow blindingly bright as the giant appeared.
A violent gust of wind blew and honed in on Allen, who still held the monstrous hawk bound in his chain.
"Brother, please hang in there!"
Julius concentrated his thunder onto the giant. As he pointed his finger at Vedrfolnir, the giant nodded.
Dark clouds began to gather over the giant''s head.
Crash!
Thunder shook the air, and lightning began to converge on the giant''s arms.
Allen wove his threads together with one hand to form a copper-green sword, and with the other hand, he sent out a shockwave. The wind collided with Allens attack that manipted space itself, and missed Allen again and again.
A few minutes passed like this.
Allen kept the monster in check, using his mana to continually deflect the oing waves of wind. Chains arose repeatedly from underfoot, ensnaring the monster and limiting its movement.
"You ready yet?"
"One minute! No, just 30 seconds!"
He was being too greedy. Allen bit his lip. Even at this very moment, student casualties were still mounting.
It was a mistake to think that Allen and Julius could deal with the massive hawk on their own, or even that they could with the help of other students. Add in to the mix the monsters flocking toward them, and the situation was obviously not a good one.
If you''re going to do it, you have to do it right.
Julius was gathering up his strength to kill the monster in one shot. Things would have gotten dicey if Allen identally killed it.
When thirty seconds had passed, Julius eximed, "Okay, Im ready now!"
The storm of thunder and lightning gathered in the giant''s hand. The electrical storm transformed into a giant hammer half the size of the giant''s upper body.
The giant swung the hammer.
For a few minutes, Julius''s all-out mana attack was carried out by the hands of the spirit.
[Mjollnir(A)](Temporary)
Immediately after the attack, the spirit faded away and seemed to vanish into Juliuss lightning-shaped mark.
A sound rang out. In the blink of an eye, the hammer struck the hawk in the chest.
Bang!
The lightning shed, scorching the hawks glossy, ck feathers. The bolts of electricity finally ceased once the hammer had dug into its chest.
However, that was not the end.
"Lets wrap this up."
Julius smiled as he lowered his hand, numerous lightning bolts crashing down upon the hawk''s head as they had only been waiting for his signal.
Crash!
The lightning struck again.
Boom!
The monster, defenselessly hit by numerous lightning bolts, appeared winded.
But why
Something was off. Each of his five senses were ring at him in rm.
Ves hurriedly cried, Allen, get back! Come on!
Allen did not ignore her. He immediately kicked off the ground and backed away.
Julius opened his Quest Window. Now, all that was left to do was collect his reward and return to the Academy.
Kill the ancient monster sealed in the ruins and prevent disaster yourself! Time limit: 3:31:18.
Reward: Fragment of truth(???)
"OK, Brother, let''s go back
Huh?
"Why is the Quest Window still
Julius turned his head to answer his own question
A ck shadow fell upon him.
Rumble.
That was thest thing he saw before losing consciousness.
* * *
Julius''s body flew through the air like a toy.
The sight of him in that moment, his equipment all instantly smashed to pieces, looked too absurd to be real. Allen''s gaze did not leave the monster that attacked Julius.
It was still in the air.
Right above the spot where Julius had fallen.
Pondering whether it was he or their shared opponent who had attacked him.
The suspiciously gigantic hawktoorge to confidently identify as a birdhad an otherworldly appearance.
All of its wounds had long since disappeared.
The monster stared straight at Julius for a while, then turned its head again.
Allen locked eyes with it for a moment. He could not see the same ferocity as before in its yellow eyes.
"It cant be"
It took but a moment.
He missed his chance.
ng!
Cough
He was able to stop it due to Vess assistance.
Allen scrambled to his feet. In front of him was a long furrow in the sand, plowed along the path his body had dug.
Vedrfolnir tilted its head again. It looked at Allen with questioning eyes, as if doubting the sight before it, and raised his wings again.
His vision went ck.
Crash!
It wasn''t something he could have stopped.
The giant''s eyesight, his five amplified senses, and his great perception typically helped him in predicting movement.
None of these things could detect Vedrfolnirs movements.
Allen was unable to react to the attack on his ownnot even once. It was only because Ves moved first that each attack was parried.
Counterattacks were still impossible. However
Behind the monsters eyes, past the relentless attacks targeting him, a hint of sadness surfaced.
Vedrfolnir gazed longingly at the pouring stars, as if it wanted nothing to do with the earth at all.
"The glory of an era long past. The same goes for the one who received the protection of the God of Lightning And you as well."
A look of astonishment crossed Allen''s face.
In an instant, the monster cast aside its emotions and turned its head, heading for Allen.
I had some expectations, sensing the blood of a giant What a disappointment. You must have acquired that swordsmanship by chance.
It spoke with a tone of disappointment.
The Ves''s de began to tremble.
"There''s nothing more to see here. Thank you for waking me up, but
The intelligent, yellow eyes looked around.
"I was woken up by force. Thus, the price shall be paid."
Again the monster moved.
Its wings sprawled-wide raced beneath the glittering night sky, heading away from him and towards the others.
Chapter 90
Chapter 90
The monsters wings, spread wide, only made its massive size evenrger.
Its sharply curved beak faced the ground, and the rest of its body twitched restlessly as it stopped short midair.
The white whirlwind struck.
"Run"
Crash!
The upper body of a student who was trying to escape flew through the air. His mind not yet caught up with what had happened, the student watched his lower body fall to the ground.
"Ahhhh!"
Wham! Bang!
He was cut off before he even had the chance to scream, his whole body torn to shreds by the whirlwind that followed the monster.
Other students in the vicinity were also in bad shape. Although they had managed to avoid taking a direct hit, one of them stumbled into the slicing wind, and even the many who avoided being hit by the attack were swept away in the aftermath.
Realizing their lives were on the line, the students'' faces turned white as a sheet.
I-Im leaving! Fuck! I''m getting out of here!"
"I''m going home! Camille! Come on, let''s go!"
Shit, I shouldn''t havee to the Academy. I never even wanted this
The others were no exception, including those who were handling the remaining guardians and those who were fending off monstersing from afar.
Yet before they could escape, the shadow shot by again.
Then, the wind stopped.
Crash!
"H-help me!"
"W-where are the professors?"
"Master Jaqnelle! Please, please."
From that point on, the students began to run away. Their drive to best the monsters had run dry. How could they choose to continue fighting after witnessing such a scene?
"Everybody! Just hang in there a little longer! The Academy will figure out something soon!
The third-year upperssman in charge of the present battlefield tried to prevent the students from leaving, but it was to no avail. Now overwhelmed by fear, the only thing the student had left was their survival instinct.
"Please! Stay with me! Help me!"
"If we just stay hopeful, we will ovee thi!
Boom!
"Ahhhh!"
The body of the third-year upperssman was tossed aside like a scrap of shredded meat.
An attack by such a massive monster, airborne and aided by the wind, was not something that a mere student could withstand.
With the students beacon of leadership now discarded, the students who still remained all ran for their lives.
"P-please, help me! My legs won''t move!"
"Give me some potions! I''ll be indebted to you forever, Im begging you!"
Voices scattered along the wind pleaded with their peers for aid. From here and there came the sound of shattering destruction.
Allen managed to move in an attempt to block the monsters attack. However, the hawk evaded him, beginning its rampage meant to dispose of the remaining students. No matter what magic he used, even as he revealed his full strength and used his inherited power of the giant, Allens foe ignored him.
Vedrfolnir could not keep Allens sturdy body pinned down, but Allen could not keep up with the hawks mid-air maneuvering.
It wasnt like there werent others who took advantage of their scuffles and made attempts at the monster, but those efforts had ceased once the monster started selectively retaliating against its attackers.
Not even Julius could help. Hed been incapacitated and was now lying unconscious.
Amidst all the blood and confusion, through all the screams and death and across that chaotic battlefield moved one white-haired woman.
Stand out in this dungeon practice-raid.
Maria Caritas.
She stared at the monster with an expressionless face, showing as little emotion as possible.
I couldn''t check it out as I was unable to leave the area of the Holy Sword but an ancient monster is likely to be there.
A white wind wrapped around a body ck as shadow.
Screams rang out as it disappeared from view, and the smell of blood wafted through the scattering wind.
It will be too much for the students to deal with, so after a few have suffered some damage take care of it.
She tried to ignore the light ripples tugging at her heart, and went on with her magic. Iridescent mana resembling a bygone divine power pooled at her stomach.
When she closed her eyes, there was a doorone that divided humans from something other. She opened it, stifling her instinctive repulsion.
With that flick of a switch, she changed.
Tree of Sephiroth.
Way of the Serpent.
Tenth Sephirah: Malkhut.
Her already faint emotions went entirely numb. The wall marking her limits vanished. She stepped onto the other sidebing something inhuman.
A halo rose from her body, driving away the inky darkness.
It took great devotion to submit oneself to a non-human body.
Eighth Sephirah: Hod.
A wless, unfeeling, perfect spirit settled over her head. Any unnecessary emotion faded into the darkness of her ck pupils. From her back, a pair of wings unfurled, the white light of her magic zing bright.
She stepped forward.
Tap, tap, tap.
She glided over the blood-soaked sand, her steps quiet.
Emerald-colored roses bloomed in her wake.
Seventh Sephirah: Netzach.
The pandemonium around her calmed, allowing her to clear her mind.
"H-help Ah."
"P-please help Wait, what
The panic-stricken people around her came to their senses. Reason resurfaced, still dwelling in those who grappled with their new, excruciating pain. Their frenzied emotions subsided as they regained theirposure.
At the same time, a hexagram shone upon her chest.
Sixth Sephirah: Tiferet.
"C-could you spare a potion? Huh? H-how did
"I-I''m alive
The wounds of the students who touched the halo gradually faded away.
Tap, tap, tap.
Once again, logical thought returned to the battlefield.
Behind her, countless students retreated in an orderly manner. Those with rity of mind made the rational decision to move the injured with them as they hurried to the rear.
Finally, the ancient monster, too, focused its gaze on her.
The monster felt a twinge of surprise.
"What are you?"
Maria ignored the monster''s question, and instead searched for ways to kill it.
First Sephirah: Kether.
A crown of light hovered around her head, lending her an ''understanding'' of everything her vision touched, as if it all were mere cogs in some sort of machine.
"What exactly are you? What strange power, hmm
Weight, size, degree of vision, reaction speed, physical strength, speed, wind strength
Each piece of consumable information, changing moment to moment, flowed into her head. Her newly adopted state of being sorted through all of this information.
Ninth Sephirah: Yesod.
Based on all that information, she predicted the opponent''s next moves.
"Youre unlike anything I''ve seen in thest tens of thousands of years. It''s hard for me to see, even through my ''eyes."
The predictions were based on previously analyzed actions, and even were centered around the total sum and quality of stimted muscle activity.
Fifth Sephirah: Gevurah.
The understanding, interpretation, and subsequent predictive use of the exposed information bore from it extreme levels ofbat assistance.
Her power output, strength, and reaction speed all increased. Combat-rted movements and instincts were maximized.
A clear purpose was etched in her emotionless eyes, and a sword of light appeared in her right hand.
"Are you the new ruler? This is strangeabnormal, to say the least. The body is the same, but the spirit is ovein.
The understanding of monsters.
The prediction of movement.
The potential application in battle.
And the judgment that pushed forth the right answer out of dozens of choices.
Third Sephirah: Binah.
Using all the information flooding into her mind, she finalized her judgment.
"Who summoned your creation? No, who made you
"Calctionsplete."
She raised her head. A swordposed of ten lights began to hover over and circle around her. Her pupils constantly darted around, as she received information about the movement.
She uttered indifferently, It has been determined that in following the eventsid out in scenario 7,182, the target may be exterminated.
Her wings of light flew up into the sky. The ancient monster burst intoughter with an amused face.
"An intriguing ability. No, its a bit of a downgrade from the original, huh? Let me guess
"Beginning the extermination of the Fallen Incarnation, ''Vedrfolnir."
A sword of light arched through the sky.
At that very moment, the monster spread its huge wings, tearing the sky asunder.
The battle between the white angel and the ck monster hadmenced.
* * *
* * *
Allen watched Maria and Vedrfolnirs confrontation with a cold expression.
Crash!
Vedrfolnir attacked, moving at such a high speed that its body appeared to physically stretch. Maria evaded all those attacks by a beat, or even a few, allowing it no opportunity to strike her down.
Hundredsmaybe even thousandsof wind gusts flew at her, perhaps angry as she moved her much smaller body too tactfully, dodging all of the attacks.
While evading the weaponized natural forces, she even hurled swords of light toward the monster, not letting up on her assault.
It was a match between unshakable prediction against unstoppable speed.
There wasnt the slight hint of disquiet in Maria''s eyes. After all, nothing was beyond her prediction.
Everything fell within her calctions.
As the damage done to others had been dwindling steadily since the start of her battle, Allen lowered himself, quietly gathering his mana.
What are you going to do? I think it''s better to take your aim next time you see an opportunity, she asked in a low voice.
Allen shook his head. ''The next time I see an opening, Ill cut in right away.
Allen wasn''t just getting hit and beat down. All the while, hed been thinking about how to make up for his slow speed.
His sensitivity interfered with his expanded consciousness. His five amplified sensesall of which were deeply embedded in his processing perceptionassimted into his body as they gazed out at the world.
His thoughts raced, despite his blurred vision.
''I was supposed to predict its movement like Maria, but
Allen watched her battle and realized that it was impossible.
He was capable of seeing a few moves ahead in battle, a skill that typically allowed him to stay ahead of his opponent, but there was no way he could predict dozens upon dozens like her. Even if he tried to precisely copy that skill, Allens brain wouldnt be able to handle the influx of information.
Then what could he do?
Give up?
That wasnt an option.
He wondered for a second if he could escape, but remembered that hed still yet to find any clues about Julius.
Allen ran through the facts he knew about the ancient monster.
It possessed feathers that could deflect most attacks. It could elerate to speeds even he could not read. It could freely generate wind.
And the gravest fact above all above all else was that it possessed overwhelming intelligence.
However, did all that make that monster worth running away from?
Is it intimidating enough that I would do away with all my ns?
No. Absolutely not.
The monster was not an opponent worth despairing over, even if it had presented Allen with some hardship.
There were countless monsters that Julius killed on his first go-around. Some of them were tougher opponents than this ancient monster. However, that didnt mean he could necessarily say that Vedrfolnir was stronger in their first life.
Then the issue is?
The conclusion made itself apparent as quickly as the question had crossed his mind.
A shortage of offensive power.
Allen''s magic in this life wascking, and the number of attacks he mastered was rtively quite small. Hed been working hard to save Julius in this runthrough, instead.
Allen couldn''t do space-shifting or transportation magic like Rachael.
Until now, hed gotten by with weaving together threads of mana to make objects or to run through space itself, but that had now proven insufficient.
The shape of his manaposed tools was just the best method to maximize Allen''s strengths.
''I can''t just rearrange threads anymore now.
That was a bit of a shame; if he were to try it now, the magic wouldnt be stable. Being able to use time magic on his opponent would have been a great help.
Nheless, it was currently beyond him.
Allen resolved to find a way to increase his offense when he returned to the Academy, and gripped Ves tight.
In that case, the task before him was simple.
If magic wouldnt work
He would have no choice but to use his sword.
The third form hed just learned.
Jotunnsverd Ljossol.
Hed seen earlier that the attack would work. If he constantly aimed at Vedrfolnir from the ground, the monster wouldnt be able to ignore it.
If he created an opening for her, Maria wouldn''t miss it.
As soon as I tried to wring my magic by ringing in the Yongno-sim, I heard a loudugh and a voice that had disappeared for a while.
The very moment he was about to squeeze out everyst drop of mana from his humming dragons core, he heard a voice he hadnt heard in a while apanied by a loudugh.
"Fuuuck! Get out of my way! Brother, you powered up, huh. Vroom, vroom, Brother! Here Ie!
Crash!
When Allen looked up in shock, he saw Julius flying through the sky on a spider awash in shining starlight.
A spider-shaped tattoo glistened on his back in the shape of a constetion, and Julius sent down a bolt of lightning with a big smile stered on his face.
Now, what the fuck is that?
That''s what Allen wanted to say.
Allen assumed he wouldnt see him again after Julius had been flung away from the force of the attack. Yet, hed suddenly shown up with some kind of newfound strength?
Average day for Julius, I suppose
It was an entirely unrealistic move, and it was absolutely something that would have happened to him.
Allen nodded, convinced.
This was amon urrence in Julius''s life.
He gained newfound strength in moments of crisis, would receive a helping hand when in desperate need, and received rewards from conveniently constructed events.
The only reason he felt surprised was because it was the first time hed seen the phenomenon so up-close, but it certainly wasn''t strange.
''Well, things will be easier because of this, at least.
If Allen could still manage to create an opportunity, the rest would be settled by these two people.
Having found his bearings, Allen was about to try using his magic again, when someone called out to him.
"Sir Allen."
Under most circumstances, it was a call he would have ignored.
However, he had no choice but to turn his head toward the next voice that spoke.
"Allen, what are you doing here?
"Rachael?"
Behind him, Rachael stood with Alexius, looking exhausted.
"Rachael, why are you here
"Youre going off to fight a dangerous battle, but youre telling me to stay out of it?"
"No, it''s not like that
"Well, what is it, then? You wanna do this together now? All of a sudden? Do you really think youre in a position to say that to me?
As Rachael took a step forward, her expression enraged, Allen stepped back, looking troubled.
"I, now
When Rachael was about to stomp forward once more, Alexius stepped in at the prime moment.
"Now, now, lets do this after the battle. We can do this together.
Rachael closed her mouth upon his interjection, as if she suddenly remembered the current situation. Her re toward Allen, however, didn''t fade.
You''re going to have a hard timeter, aren''t you? Hmm.
Vesughed in a merry tone.
As Rachael stepped back, Alexius looked at him with clear eyes.
"Sir, the chief called for you."
"Is it rted to that?"
Allen pointed at Julius, who was running wild, like he owned the sky.
He nodded.
"Yes, that''s right. Though it appears that this should be good for you, too."
Rachael grabbed Allen''s hand hard. When she noticed no change in Allen''s expression, she immediately rxed to see if she was more hurt by this action than he was.
Allen''s ring eyes grew fiercer.
"Hurry up, lets go. There''s not much time left."
The night was fading away.
Chapter 91
Chapter 91
Rachael teleported rapidly across the battlefield several times with a short sigh. Judging by her movements, it wasnt hard to guess that she had found Allen by haphazardly shifting around.
The ce where shealong with the others shed helped along the wayfinally arrived was the Minima tribes camp.
Numerous students groaned as they received treatment.
''Hmm, I couldn''t see it, but he was helping from the rear.
There may be fewer casualties than she had thought.
Serious injuries weremon at the Academy. However, it was rare for a student to die, as the Academy''s treatment facilities were top-notch. Whats more, the students were also some of the top talents in the world. They each possessed more than enough skill to protect their own lives.
This situation just so happened to be an exception to that norm.
"Follow me."
"Allen, see you in a little bit."
Rachael teleported away. She had more work to do.
Alexius, who hade along with her, arrived at a tentrger than all those surrounding it at the center of the camp.
"Chief! I brought Sir Allen."
"Pleasee over this way."
He entered the tent with the permission of the chief.
Taking a step into the tent, Allen had no choice but to hesitate at the sight within.
"What is?"
There in the center of the tent, metal rings were spinning in ce midair, drawing what seemed like starlight from the sky via an opening in the top of the tent.
Perhaps because of that, the tents interior was bright despite theck of torches.
Its an astronomical apparatus, created a few generations ago by the collective effort of humans and dwarves, the tribal chief said from behind the instrument.
"I see."
Hearing his tranquil voice, Allen strode fully into the tent with Alexius following after him.
"Wee."
"Does that astronomical apparatus have anything to do with the power that Julius presumably just obtained? If so, is the reason why you called me here also?
The tribal chief expressed no sign of denial and bowed his head before answering the question. "First of all, I think we should ask you, Sir Allen, for forgiveness." Allen said nothing in reply, as the chief hadn''t finished. Im afraid granting you the same power that was gifted to Sir Julius has be quite the difficult matter."
"For what reason?"
Allen did not push back, stating that such a im was ridiculous or that hed broken any kind of earlier promise. Instead, he simply asked why.
"Because it is toote."
As they talked, Alexius began to prepare his misceneous affairs.
"The wandering stars reveal themselves to us in the sky by night and by day. But we, who are dull inparison, can only see their faint glowe nightfall. On the day of prophecy, when stars pour down from the heavens like this, we reach the point when we are closest to those celestial bodies. Thus, we are given the great opportunity to engrave upon ourselves the stigma of the very stars that
Allen cut him off decisively, as he realized that the chief was beginning to ramble. In short, you''re saying that the stars power dwindles when morning breaks, so you cant dole out the same strength as was given to Julius?
Outside, the battle was still raging. Going around in circles over useless details was just a waste of time.
"That''s right."
The chief looked disappointed that he couldn''t finish his speech. Soon after Alexius, now prepared, approached them.
"What we can give you is this."
Alexius gestured over to the metal rings he had introduced as an astronomical instrument.
"It won''t be long now."
Before he knew it, the metal rings had stopped spinning. However, even though the apparatus had stopped, the light gathered in its center did not disperse.
"It is not quite as strong as the stigma obtained by Sir Julius, who suddenly flew past at the perfect timing for the ritual
As Allen sat under the astronomical instrument, the collection light slowly descended upon him.
"But with this, you should be given what you need most. To help a sorcerer like you, Sir Allen."
His consciousness slowly began to fade into darkness.
"Then it shall begin."
At the break of dawn, the baptism of the stars began.
* * *
Allen, wake up! Allen! I told you to get up!
Someone was being excessively noisy.
Oh, wake up already! This is no time to sleep!
It was a familiar voice. Loud and unhappy with everything. Almost like Vess voice
Ah.
Are you awake yet? Youre finally up? I swear, you better not
"Stop."
Allen clutched the rattling handle at his waist with a tight grip. He felt a brief spell of dizziness, though, it disappeared in an instant. In fact, his mind seemed to have be even clearer than before.
Wow! Youre awake! I was surprised that you couldn''t get your act together after the ceremony. Those people really didnt give you the full story, did they Ves murmured loudly in a relieved voice.
She was lively as always.
Allen left the tent without listening to her spiel. "Fortunately, it hasn''t been long."
There were still many students nearby moaning about their injuries, and the sky was still dark.
That''s why I kept talking to you! To make sure you woke up
"I got it. I got it. I got it Please exin to me what happened, Allen requested of Ves, running toward the ce where hedst seen Vedrfolnir. His time since the ceremony was an empty void in his memory.
Allen, you lost consciousness after receiving what those bad guys called the baptism of the stars.
"And then?"
Then? That''s it.
"What?"
I was just worried because you didn''t wake up! Should I have just done nothing and waited to see if you were unharmed after you woke up?
"Ha"
Allen hastened his steps, thinking to himself that he had never asked her to do anything of the sort. With all of his newfound vitality, he dug each step violently into the ground, elerating his body.
But I protected you, so youre safe!
Allen didn''t answer, spreading out his senses.
Ten meters, twenty meters, thirty meters
Allen suddenly had a strange feeling, as information from the wide battlefield flooded into his mind.
No headache?
But with this, you should be given what you need most. To help a sorcerer like you, Sir Allen.
As soon as the tribal chiefs words came to mind, he immediately widened his sensory radius even further.
He didn''t feel any semnce of a headache even after exceeding one kilometerand then two, and then three, close to his limit. Under normal circumstances, he would have already developed a headache, or even a nosebleed.
It wasn''t until hed reached a sensing range of ten kilometers that he felt the same headache as before.
''My limits have widened.
He went all the way to the battlefield to experiment. Despite the extremely detailed information flooding into his mind, there were no traces of a headache so long as he kept within a radius of 300 meters. It was even possible to extend the range to one kilometer with that level of information influx, though that was starting to push it.
He thought that, just maybe, without even testing it, his mental resistance had also significantly increased.
It was certainly just as the tribal chief said.
The baptism of the stars may not have bestowed upon him quite as special of powers as it did upon Julius; however, it had permanently elevated a sorcerers most important power.
Few wizards can spread their senses as widely as this.
Even as they rose through the ranks and expanded their sensing ranges ordingly, there were few sorcerers who could truly utilize their senses to such an extent.
It was difficult to take in the amount of information detected within a range of any size. This issue was, needless to say, exacerbated for those at a younger age, who were not yet quite as mentally strong. In that sense, the blessing of the stars would surely prove enormously beneficial for Allen in the future.
After all, his sensing range also corresponded to the radius around himself where he could most precisely perform his magic.
''Truthfully, this is better than what Julius got, despite having a stigma.
In the first ce, Allen had been anxious about having a stigma imnted in his body, as it would create a connection with some transcendental being called a god. He already had a sufficient connection to the transcendental via the white and ck books; he didnt particrly need any more.
Not to mention, uncontroble variablessuch as the aid of another spiritual creaturecould put him in danger. It was no wonder why books had been his only source of help thus far.
Allen picked up his pace.
At the halfway point between the frontlines and the camp, he could not yet hear the sounds of battle.
* * *
* * *
Boom!
By the time the monster came into view, Allen could hear Julius''s voice cutting through the roaring thunder.
"Hes so full of himself, thinking hes so special now with his star stigma, hm?
Allen raised his gaze to examine the monster''s condition, then his face ckened in surprise.
"If it weren''t for that surprise attack earlier, Im sure
Vedrfolnir looked as if he had been seriously injured, unlike before when hed appeared overwhelmingly tough and ferocious. His wings had been torn to shreds. ck blood pulsed steadily from the wounds littering the glossy, ck feathers, which were falling out in clumps. One eye was in shambles, unable to regenerate due to a sword of light stuck inside.
"Didn''t you say I wasnt out for long?"
Yes, maybe ten minutes? It really hasnt been that long
Ten minutes Just ten minutes''
Ten minutes was not that long to her?
Despite having spent months together with Allen, she still clearly had a different perception of the world. Unless she chose to die of her own volition, she would be an immort giant, living forever.
''That''s why the tribal chief and Alexius werent in the tent.
At this point, Vedrfolnir was barely floating in the wind, having taken quite a few hits.
"You ignorant livestock. No, now that youve once again achieved civilization, this is better. You ignorant humans. Do you know what you''ve done?"
A myriad of things shone through the monster''s eyes, then disappeared and were absorbed.
That was how he knewhow he found out. What did its presence mean? What did it mean when it said that Julius had been blessed by the God of Thunder?
"Do you know what your very existence itself disproves? The time ising. The prophecy is upon us. And that means
The ck and the white. The eyes of the Incarnation of Wisdom gazed upon those two colors.
As the monster spoke with its eyes zing, from right behind Allen, the white book flipped open its pages without a sound.
He felt disquieted by the death of fellow students. Upon the conclusion of the baptism of the stars, a short bout of dizziness overcame him and went, as his mental facilities were bolstered. After a few moments, Ves
He felt dis by the dea of . Up concl stars, a of diz d , as his me stered. ents,
dis dea of . Up concl , diz , as ents,
At that same moment, the monster raised his head, seeking out the source of a sudden rippling sound.
Crash!
A small meteorite pierced through the monster''s body. Astonishment seeped into the monster''s eyes. Vedrfolnirs body convulsed, and Maria, who had not missed the moment, began to make her move.
Stab.
As soon as the white sword prated the body, Julius shouted with a nervous look.
"Get out of my way!"
Boom!
Lightning struck. Julius unleashed upon his opponent dozens of bolts of lightning without thinking about anything else. The monster''s eyes set on Allen for thest time.
With that, the monster crashed to the ground, as if it could not hold out any longer.
Allen looked back, but could not tell what it was that the monster hadst seen. He looked back at the white book, just in case.
He felt a little bit disappointed that the monster had been killed by a meteorite that had fallen by chance. But he was relieved, too, that there were no more casualties
Maria flew away to dispose of the remaining monsters as soon as theirrge foe had died.
Julius paused, his head up in the air with his eyes tightly closed. For a moment, he looked exhausted, before he immediately screamed.
"I did it!"
He ran about giddily and gleefully for a while. Allen sheathed his sword, drowning in a feeling of despondency at the sight.
"Is the dungeon practice really over now?"
Allen had learned a lot from this practice, and reaped lovely rewards from the experience, too.
Now he would be able to utilize his vastly improved mental capabilities after pinpointing his limits, and hed also have to rethink his hypotheses about the white book, and hed also have to do something about Rachael, too, but
"First, let''s find the team."
Allen first returned to the Minima tribe''s basecamp and found Alexius.
If his team members were injured, they would be receiving treatment there, and since they had spent so much time together, he was sure he could find them if they were there.
However, from what Allen heard after meeting with Alexius, his teammates werent there at the camp.
"You havent seen them?"
"Yes, but if the others had arrived here, I don''t think they would have necessarilye to find me. Miss Milred is in the rear. I''ll give you her coordinates at least."
Allen noted her approximate position and moved. Milred was lying in the tent where the other patients were located.
Milred took one look at Allen''s face, and greeted him with a bbergasted smile.
"Allen!"
She told him that she was injured when a monster attacked her while moving with a group of students. She smiled brightly when Allen told her that the monster had been defeated, took out a bushel of apples from her subspace, and shouted, "Well done, my junior! Youve done a great job! Now! Take an apple as a reward!"
"By the way" Allen asked, receiving his congrattory apple. "Do you know where the other members of the team are?"
"Huh? The others? I thought they were with you?
Haven''t you ever been inbat before?"
She must have noticed that the mood was starting to turn sour, so she responded in an urgent tone.
"Uh I''ll ask my friend on the student council to look around! Everyone will be fine!"
"Take it easy."
Allen hurried to Rachael.
''Rachael should know. Didn''t she say that they were the ones who told her where I was?
He searched for her, as his imagination ran amuck.
And
"What? Allen, your teammates? Milred and Alexius are in the camp
"Not them" He cut her off with a subdued voice.
"You didnt talk to any other of my teammates besides them?
"Allen, wait a minute. Now"
She approached him as if she knew that he was out of sorts, but Allen shook his head and withdrew.
"I''ll see you in a little while. I won''t be long."
"Allen!"
Thest ce Allen''s feet touched the ground was within one of the spires.
One of the four spires toppled over like a toy castle. There, Allen withdrew a bead from his pocket.
One of the five Wonders of the First Warrior.
[Heavens Eye]
Holding onto a feeble hope, Allen used the bead. It instantly absorbed his mind. When he opened his eyes, he saw his own body beneath him.
''Evan Baroque, a son of the Baroque family.'' No information found.
''Ariel Hail, a daughter of the Hail family.''
No information found.
''William, a student at the Galshdin Academy.''
No information found.
The white part of the bead began to turn gray. Allen stood there, dumbfounded, then returned to his senses.
No, there was still hope.
It was one of the five Wonders of the First Warrior, made by collecting andbining all the treasures of the world to defeat the Demon King. Granting the ability to find the whereabouts of any person who existed in the world was quite valuable in itself. However, granting that ability alone wasnt quite enough to constitute such a grand title.
Therefore, Heavens Eye had one more function.
''Seeing the past.''
To be exact, it allowed the user to watch parts of the past they desired to see.
Though it could allow the user to look into the past, it could not show anything from beyond three days prior. There were other restrictions as welllike being geographically close to the location of the eventbut all he needed was for it to find the location of his other teammates.
"A few hours ago, my team, here at the ruins."
The white bead began to turn gray at a rapid pace.
Time began to flow in reverse.
The ck monster sucked back into the ground beneath the ruins. The spires that hade crashing down and crumbling away found their ce atop the structure once more, and the guardians of the ruins that had flooded from out the ruins returned inside.
Allen descended into the ruins without a moment to spare.
''Just as I thought, they were in the ruins.
Since he was in the ruins, he was worried his newfound powers may not work. Heavens Eye could search throughout a rtively wide range, but in extending the range, anything that wanted to be hidden could do so.
After passing the first floor, the second, third, and fourth floors
His body rapidly dug further and further underground.
When he crossed the fifth floor and reached the sixth, his body stopped.
This is where
Allen turned around, trying to remember the significance of the location, and stumbled into a fork in the road right before him.
"Oh."
There were two bodies.
Chapter 92
Chapter 92
Several kilometers from the entrance to the megaruins, a small canyony in the Great Desert. In that ce that had been left untouched for decadesperhaps even centuriesa slight vibration finally reached its destination.
Crash!
Shortly thereafter, the ground broke apart as two figures exchanged blows.
"Will you die already?"
Bjorna''s amused voice rang in the darkness. Even in the midst of the strewn-about sand and the stone fragments of the ruins, she was nowhere to be seen.
Jaqnelle''s body was bathed in a brilliant light, pushing the shadows away. He stood atop a long stretch of light, the bottom of his feet stained in an inky darkness from which a human figure rose.
"You''ve gotten a lot weaker over thest three years, huh?
"I don''t think you''ve changed muchpared to before, either
Jaqnelle twisted around. A de pierced the ball of light hanging on an adjacent canyon wall.
It didn''t end there.
Schwing!
A terrifyingly close de brushed past his cheek. Drops of blood trailed along the de that had sprung from the shadow beneath him.
Jaqnelle managed to move his jaw to evade the attack and scattered thousands of balls of light in all directions.
Crackle!
The air grew static and then burst, turning everything in the surrounding radius into dust. Bjorna, having somehow disappeared, walked out leisurely from within a shadow of the cliff.
"Hey, over here. What are you aiming for?
As she spoke with a yful grin, Jaqnelle bit his lips and red at her.
It had been that attack again, the one that prated his own defenses.
The Shield of Heaven. He was called that because his defenses could deflect any kind of attackwhether physical, magical, or even mental.
"There are gnats flying around."
"Oh, really? Want me to help you with that?
However, by some unknown means, her attack was different.
"No, I don''t need your help. I can take care of things myself."
If a shadow existed in this space, a de could emerge from it, no matter how small the shadow. Her des seemed to go beyond the typical limits of space. He didnt know where the attack woulde from, so it was all he could do to just barely react in time.
When he answered with a stony expression, she walked around him with her light, graceful steps.
"Whats with that face? Someone might think I''m bothering you, kid."
Bjorna''s eyes were curved into beautiful crescents. Her attitude was one of someone who knew they were going to win. She acted as though it was only natural, since it really was. Shed clearly had the upper hand throughout their battle.
Jaqnelle had only endured up to this point because he was a master of defense, but just having the ability to prolong their battle was unlikely to lead to victory.
"Are you denying that you are?"
"Me? Why, how could I possibly?" She exaggeratedly covered her mouth as if she must have misheard, and shook her head with an innocent face. "Perhaps theres been a misunderstanding."
Jaqnelle''s lips quivered with hatred. "All those years youve got on me, and yet youre still acting so childish."
"Hmm? We only have a year or two difference between us at most, though?
He let out a littleugh. It''s been decades since she''d been a member of the Top Eight. She reigned as the Queen of Darkness for so long, yet still behaved in that way.
Arent you embarrassed, talking like that?"
"I mean, perhaps a little that my body has"
"Grandma sure is flipping out.
For a moment, her hair stood on end. Bjorna''s smile disappeared.
Her body melted into a shadow.
Fwish.
Arge sword shadowed in a dark red aura hurdled through the air. The spot where he had stood just before was absolutely obliterated, creating a small pit.
Even so, she was a stepte.
Manifesting a few steps away, Bjorna appeared with a jagged wound on her shoulder, perhaps the mark of an animal bite.
"Beast King!"
Her expression turned cold as she looked up at the top of the canyon.
Above the canyon, a massive figure stood against the night sky. Gaillon''s face was fixed, dripping with a deep contempt.
He jumped off the canyon. A small gust of sand blew to the side of his sword, as his white ears revealed themselves.
Are you out of your mind, olddy? Trying to do all that at your age? Youve gone senile Tsk."
It was Gaillon, the Beast King.
He grabbed the hilt of his massive sword with an nonchnt expression that seemed to hint that there was nothing special to see there.
The look in Jaqnelles eyes changed.
"How did you?
"Aw, kiddo, you''re pretty good at being pushed around by a senile old woman."
Jaqnelle''s face flushed red in response to his sarcasm; however, he also had a sinking feeling of defensiveness. How could he have known she would show up with a vengeance after three years had already passed?
"I let my guard down for a moment. If it were to happen again, things wouldnt turn out the same
"That''s just called skill."
Though Gaillon cut off his words, Jaqnelle had nothing to say in response, anyway. He knew that what he had said was true.
Nevertheless, with a hardened gaze, he was determined not to let this happen again.
"How did you get here, Beast King? I made sure that I couldn''t be traced
Her expression instantly changed, seeming to realize something, as she threw another de, which turned into a shadow, into a nearby rock. The rock broke neatly in two, and a specter of a little wolf emerged from it.
"Tracking magic?"
To her redundant question, Gaillon replied with a cool smile. "Archmagic. Its called Wolf Hunt. What do you think? Isn''t it nice? I named it myself."
As Gaillon spoke with a smug face, she murmured, ring at the ground, "I knew I shouldve dealt with the professors first."
The problem was that she had settled with just trapping them away, too concerned with what measures the Academy would take in retaliation if she were to do any more.
It was because of people like Jaqnelle.
There was no aspect that she enjoyedfrom the beginning to the endbecause she knew that they never considered them a part of their group.
"Well, now that I''m done giving my greetings, lets finish this up. Weve been at this long enough already.
Gaillons sharp teeth showed their ferocious appearance.
Her face turned icy. An assassin like her had to be able to keep her emotions in check at all times. Gaillon''s provocation was insignificant to her, now focused and settled.
Even so, she now had to gauge the situation.
''It would be a waste to just step down now
Dealing a serious injury, or perhaps even a fatal wound, would be preferable. Even if she couldnt manage to kill him, she wanted to give Jaqnelle a taste of the humiliation he had forced upon her. But how could she bypass Gaillon to deal him that injury?
''One-armed for life? Anything more would be impossible.
She had already used up her energy fighting Jaqnelle, and doubted she could deal with Gaillon at this point, one of the three most powerful members of the Top Eight
"Sigh, you got lucky, kiddo."
It had been three years of constant humiliation.
Shed taken advantage of the period in which her whereabouts were undocumented, when shed been injured. It was when her skills and her strength that shed worked so hard to cultivate had been diminished. Even her subordinates had taken advantage of her hiatus, stealing her property. Now, all sorts of newbies and disillusioned idiots had been fighting a war amongst themselves over who could im the title as the Ruler of the Shadows.
Everything that she had worked her entire life to build and aplish had been lost by that one defeat. That''s why she had been aiming for a surprise attack, as both a signal to announce her return and to avenge her pride
"I guess today just isnt the day. There is nothing I can do. See youter, kiddo.
"Lady, where do you think youre going after picking a fight first?" Gaillon exploded violently in anger.
Having not fought a battle in the past few years, he was itching to fight. A battle of life and death. He wanted to feel that rushthat joy.
She smiled at his longing desperation. "Oh, Im sorry, is it okay if I go? The little ones are probably in danger."
Her finger pointed toward Vedrfolnir as it fell from the sky. She just so happened to catch the scene of a vicious monster attacking the masses from the sky.
"Theyre fine. It''s a child''s quarrel. That''s a piece of cake
"Gaillon."
Jaqnelle grabbed Gaillon by the shoulder.
"We have to go. That monster is still too much for those students. Many students must have already died."
"The one who will die, will die. And the one who will live, will live."
"Gaillon."
As he stared him down, Gaillon sighed and settled himself. "Tsk, I thought I was finally in for a good fight after all this time
He knew.
He knew that monster may not have been a big deal for himself, but was still far too beyond the capabilities of the first-year students.
He just wanted so badly to participate in a fight that he could actually call a battle.
"Go. But there will be no next time."
"Well, what a shame. Oh, by the way, I''ve prepared a present for you, kiddos"
Shlop.
Her body melted into the shadow of the cliff, and she disappeared in the blink of an eye.
"I do hope you like it."
Her voice trailed off, her presencepletely disappeared. Though he couldnt rx quite yet, he felt safe to say that the immediate threat had left.
In the direction she pointed, Jaqnelle saw each and every member of his former family, waiting for the oue of the battle with anxious expressions.
Jaqnelle''s face became heavy.
"Kid, do you need another hand?"
"That''s all right. Its my job to handle it myself
There was a sort of murderous venom to his tone that he hadnt shown, even when fighting Bjorna.
"Ill be fine alone."
"Then, go help the children.
Jaqnelle nodded and left the canyon.
Gaillon cast a nce in the direction he was heading and shook his head. That was what happened when one didnt tie up all loose ends.
"But who am I to say that?"
Watching a star fall from the sky for a moment, he kicked the ground.
The end of a long and drawn-out adventure was approaching.
* * *
* * *
Around him were dead bodies in disastrous disrepair. If Allen hadnt spent so much time with them, they wouldve been entirely beyond recognition.
The passageways were littered full with fallen debris, perhaps broken when Vedrfolnir had arisen.
Time began to flow backward.
Fragments of the ruins that had been destroyed and scattered about returned to their original ce, and monsters and guardians of the ruins walked back inside. Bodily wounds recovered, and broken equipment returned to its original state.
Allen gaped, struck dumb, as they turned into warm-blooded humans.
And so, the reversed hands of the spaces clock turned back in the correct direction as time began to flow once more.
It began with their transportation there.
Wh-what was that
Everyone, be careful
William!
Unable to fully grasp the situation right away due to their sudden movement, they responded one beatte to a nearby guardians attack.
William, are you okay?
The guardian was disposed of, but William had already been seriously injured.
They hurriedly healed his wound with a potion. However, Williaplexion pale with the fatigue umted from traversing the ruins for what seemed like decadesalready appeared sick and tired.
I''m o-okay. We need to figure out what''s going on
But things didn''t end there.
Rumble, rumble.
The ruins continued to shake, and monsters and guardians continued to pour out from the other side of the passage.
Evan and Ariel blocked the passage as much as possible, trying their best to endure.
Evan! Hang in there!
Cough, I got it! I can hold out as long as I feel like it, so rx!
Evan used his familys techniques. It was a neat skill, executed cleanly.
But it wasn''t enough.
If I don''t overdo it now, when will I ever?
Ariel also used as many skills as she could muster, but it was not enough to quell the endless flood of enemies.
Baroque!
In the end, they were able to take a breather only after mobilizing one of Evans familys relics.
However, the situation was grim, with no sign of improvement. Seeing this, Allen, with a bitter heart, understood what had urred.
''Bad luck.
It was just as hed suspected.
The seventh floor.
Arriving at that specific ce at that specific time was just a coincidence, and the fact that the space-shifting magic urred at that specific time, too, was also just an unexpected coincidence. The same went for the way that the monsters and guardians flocked to that same location.
It was all just an ident caused by apounding of bad luck.
William, are you trying to flirt with me? I mean, I was kind of thinking the same thing, too, you know?
Now, stop joking around. Isn''t this an emergency?
Allen silently watched their end, as they epted their fates.
Lets hang out again after all this.
I
Just the two of us.
A faint smile crossed Allens lips as they acted like their usual selves despite the difficult situation.
Just as they were preparing for their end, Evan spoke.
Someone ising this way.
The moment Allen turned his head in curiosity, he heard a voice.
A voice he would never forget.
Oh, there''s someone here?
A man with characteristic blue hair walked out from a turn-off in the passageway.
I-it''s a person!
That hair color Is it a Reinhart?
If it''s a Reinhart other than Allen it must be Julius.
Julius paused upon hearing his name. Curiously, even though he was among the monsters, none of the ones surrounding him seemed to take notice.
It must have been the Concealer''s Cloak, the Hidden Peace he had obtained from the Academy.
Do you know me?
Yes, we do. Aren''t you Allen''s brother?
Can you help us? I''ll make sure to reward you.
Julius rolled his eyes at their request. He nced at them, then peered into the air in front of him.
What a waste of time.
What?
What are you talking about?
Julius stared at them, openly annoyed. He was pretty sure they were Allens teammates, but that wasnt something to worry about since Allen wasnt here with them.
None of you are side characters I should be looking after.
Looking at them with his Iridescent Eye, he made a decision.
You guys can work it out No, actually, wait a minute
Julius, who was about to pass by ignoring them, looked in the direction where Dongdong was about to head and nodded.
You can draw attention from monsters and guardians while I take the Hidden Peace
Julius remembered. The humiliation hed suffered as a noble in the supplementary ss.
''What? Does he have no dignity? Is he not a noble? He really is just like the rumors said.
Word of his barbarism and cruelty had spread after the results of the duel and his decisive victory. It was a duel, after all, so what did it even matter?
No matter how he attempted to maintain a good reputation, nothing changed.
He made a formal apology, so I thought they made up. But I guess hes the same.
It was difficult to shake a social stigma associated with your name. If it weren''t for Dongdong, it would have been difficult to get rid of his image as a troublemaker.
He took out a small box from his subspace hed acquired at the auction house. It was an object to be used in battlea tool to draw attention by making loud noises.
Please draw their attention. You''re all going to die anyway, so you can at least do that for me, right?
What?
What would happen if your brother knew you were doing this?!
Kaboom!
The loud sound of firecrackers rippled through the passage, attracting monsters.
Ah, shit, that really is loud. But it doesn''t matter. Whos gonna know?
Monsters began to flock to them. The time limit of Evans giant m seemed to have just run its course, and their marine shield began to fade.
Well then, do your best. Bye, bye!
Julius walked toward the other passage of the fork in the road with a ridiculing tone.
The duration of their protection had ended.
Evan, what should I do?!
William, you need to live. I''ll hold them off for a while
No, Ill take care of that. You two, run away
Evan resisted until the very end, just as he had promised. But his resistance didn''tst quite as long as hed thought. One moment, he was attempting to hold their pursuers back. In the next, his arm was torn off.
Monsters flocked through the gap where he had stood.
Crack.
There were no parting words to be had, as was typically seen in action media and novels. Rather, his whole body was torn to shreds and contorted until his figure had be unrecognizable.
Next was Ariel.
William, I don''t think were going to be able to get togetherter.
Ariel, wait, n-no, no!
She pulled out a sheaf of arrows from her subspace, and charged into the crowd with all the vigor and energy left in her body. A st shot out from her body, sending tens of thousands arrows flying forward.
William ran away, his face contorted in misery.
Yet there was no miracle at the end of the path. No one showed up to help. Reality was cold.
Thud.
Soon after, a blunt instrument from behind smashed into his spine.
I-I need to make it.
Stab.
Shortly after, dozens of des found their way into his body, as he still, desperately, crawled away.
Carl, Jennie, Evan, Ariel, Al
The light in his eyes faded.
William met his end.
He never managed to call out Allen''s name.
With that, Allen''s consciousness returned to his body.
The bead turned gray and lost its light.
He heard something.
Evan is the kinda guy who is arrogant on the outside but soft on the inside. He tries to appear perfect so as to not shatter that image.
"Allen, we found you. Theres
Ariel has a lot of pride, but she loves to joke around, too. You know? She deliberately says misleading things to see how Evan and I will react.
He heard something.
Allen, I thought you were impartial. Youre the second in our ss, yet you didnt discriminate against anybody. And you helped me out a lot at the beginning. I learned that you are all really nice people. So nice that I wouldnt even hesitate to hang out with you all.
"Are you all right? You dont look so good
Well, it''s kind of weird to just tell you my evaluations of other people, so to speak I''m actually looking for my sister. Have I told you I''m an orphan?
He heard something.
I''m looking for my sister. She was sold as a ve a long time ago, and I wanted toe to the Academy by any means because of that. Of course, I was a little lost at first, but
"Hey, kid, that technique you used
I think that I can find her now. Her name repeats on loop in my mind, but all I can remember of her is that she and I have the same curly ck hair.
He heard something.
You''ll find them one day, Im sure of it.
Dark night. Bonfire. Teammates. Secrets. Dreams. And death.
The sound stopped.
"Ah."
He didnt hear anything.
Hed never hear it again.
Chapter 93
Chapter 93
The situation was resolved rtively swiftly and smoothly.
With the appearance of Gaillon the Beast King, the battlefield was quickly settled. Jaqnelle rescued the professors in the meanwhile. The adults faces had all turned paleto the point where it looked reasonable for any one of them to faint at any momentbut fortunately, none of them had died.
As soon as the faculty came to their senses, they signaled the Academy for help.
The Academy also dealt with the incident quickly.
Soon after making contact, arge number of medical staff from the Academy teleported there, generously supporting the injured with precious potions.
Thus, the total number of casualties came to 72.
23 had died.
It was surprising that more than half of the 141 people who hade to the megaruins had exited with injuries, but the statistic was quickly epted upon seeing the size of the dead monsters body. However, many aristocratic families were shocked by the event.
"You''ll have to give a proper exnation for this incident!"
"It''s normal to have casualties, but isn''t this far too many?"
In principle, when one enrolled in the Academy, it was expected that casualties may ur by the very nature of the educational circumstances, with the possibility of various safety idents and unexpected coincidences. However, it was up to the Academy to investigate and evaluate the difficulty and various perils of prospective ruins before assigning practice-raids.
Many imed that the Academy was, thus, responsible for the situation and demanded a proper exnation.
The Academy''s response to such strong bacsh was simple.
"We ept full responsibility for the unfolding of this unfortunate incident. As such, we arranged a secret investigation of the incident, revealing the intervention of an independent culprit.
The culprit singled out by the Academy was the former family of Jaqnelle the Shield of Heaven.
"ording to our investigation along with Jaqnelle''s cooperation, the Queen of Darkness, a former member of the Top Eight, lured out Jaqnelle in an attempt to regain her former glory, using numerous sacred relics to iste the on-site professors from the students, and using
The news released by the Academy fueled the aristocrats hunger for drama.
"What? The Queen of Darkness has returned?"
"Thats crazy. I thought she retired with an injury
"What if she has other targets?
The Queen of Darkness.
Up until just three years ago, she had reigned over the shadows, sending fear into the hearts of all who knew of her.
The news of her return caused such uproar that the deaths of the Academy students were regarded as a small matter inparison. Once the focus was sufficiently shifted off the casualties, the Academy once again announced shocking news.
"As a consequence of the violence they havemitted, the Academy will not forget this incident, and Jaqnelle the Shield of Heaven has dered that he shall administer the proper punishment. In this endeavor, the Academy has pledged to assist Jaqnelle. Rest assured, he will not receive nor seek any additional form ofpensation
A member of the Top Eight himself would take it upon themselves to punish the culprit.
In other words, it was an apparent deration of war.
Under normal circumstances, the empire or other members of the Top Eight would have intervened, but this time, no one stepped forward, knowing that the damage done was too great.
Also, even though the royal family was disgraced, they were still royalty. Those who viewed them as a source of social disruption were, likewise, more than happy to wee them with open arms.
Within three days, Jaqnelle set the scene for his battle, whichsted less than half a day. Rather, there was no battle whatsoever.
Their punitive sentence was executed as outlined in his promation.
The familys possessions were divided ordingly and delivered to the families of the deceased students. The parents ofmoner students received a satisfactory sum inpensation.
Jaqnelles remaining former family members were all executed at his hands.
In addition, the leader of the survey team, who failed to carry out a proper assessment of the megaruins prior to the practice-raid, shall be imprisoned in the dungeon after failing to uphold the code of conduct, resulting in this tragedy. The remaining members of the survey team shall be dismissed, and the rights they have enjoyed until this point shall be revoked.
No one disputed the Academys deration.
In a way, it was only natural that the entire site could not be thoroughly examined in just one sweep by the team. Thus, the event culminated with them receiving minor punishment.
That was the level of worth to which the death of so many students amounted.
The freshmen ss was given a temporary break for a few weeks. Mostly because their professors couldn''t proceed with the ss due to the repercussions of using archmagic.
"We remember those great students, those talented individuals who looked with hope and expectation upon their journey and lifelongmitment to the Academy. We shall not forget those who have passed on
Thete students were buried in a park-like cemetery within the Academy.
It was one of the benefits that Academy students could enjoy.
The students whose assigned practice-raid took ce in a different site than the megaruins were relieved that they hadnt ended up there, while the friends of the deceased remained in a perpetual state of mourning.
Allen stared at the graves for a while before moving on. He had no destination in mind, just walking wherever his feet took him.
Moving in such an aimless manner, his eyes suddenly caught sight of something by the corner of the park.
A figure with long, ivory hair.
Rachael was crouching over, looking off somewhere in the distance with her hands resting under her chin.
Allen moved toward her and sat beside her. "What are you doing here?"
She replied in a subdued voice, "I''m here because I''m depressed."
In the direction where she was looking, a small tombstone stood.
"If you''re depressed, then wouldnt it be better to go somewhere else other than here?"
"When I''m depressed, I want to let myself feel that way, rather than watching something funny to cheer me up. How about you?" Her serene sky blue eyes gazed at him. "You weren''t in very good shape earlier either. Are you feeling better now?"
"I Yes. Though, better might be a bit of an overstatement.
"Then
"But" Allen shook his head as if he were trying to convince himself of it, too. "I''m fine.
"Allen, it''s not your fault. It was just a terrible ident. The space-shifting trap was just
"I know. Trust me, I know."
Nevertheless, it was a fact that it had all happened because of him.
Its hard to make yourself really believe that, though, isnt it.
Yeah.
She leaned into him with a sullen face, as if she knew that there was nothing she could do to help him ovee that feeling.
"Still, you''ll get through it, right? Because youre you."
She looked up at him as she spoke in a soothing tone. Her sky blue eyes were filled to the brim with concern for him.
Allen answered with a small smile, as if to assure her that she didnt need to worry. "Yes, Ill get there eventually. If youll excuse me, I have work to do
Rachael straightened his disheveled cor as he stood.
"Ill see you this weekend. At the north gate."
"Yes." Allen nodded.
Will I really reach that ce eventually?
Was it possible to forget?
Allen smiled and shook his head.
It wasnt an easy task.
He knew that it was one he wouldnt be able to aplish.
As he turned around and began to walk back, a fire lit in his heart once more. The mes burned brighter than before.
* * *
* * *
Fsshh.
The hot water pouring down from above soaked his hair and washed his body. Allen doused himself to clear his thoughts.
It was one of his oldest habits: to allow himself to get lost in thought under boiling hot water.
Drops of steaming water trickled down his skin.
Allen reflected on what he had done so far at the Academy.
With the help of the ck book, he orchestrated a resolution to the aftermath of Benjamin and Julius''s confrontation, and used the opportunity to strengthen his rtionship with the second heir of the Aldenian Empire, who wouldter be one of Juliuss enemies.
He treated Benjamin, who would have sumbed to his circtory injuries before the regression, and raised funds by selling the recipe of the elixir to the Alchemy Mage Tower.
Even before arriving at the Academy, he supported the Sindri siblings, who had lived a difficult life before his intervention, with Cathleens help. Through them, he secretly contacted Cirction.
He rarely spent a long time away from the Academys great library, and rarely missed even the smallest of auctions thanks to Inellias hard work.
Were the things I did just not enough?
He had done plenty. And yet, it wasn''t enough.
Allen had done everything he could to prepare given his circumstances.
As proof of that, Acanders and Karik would now be finishing up their organization''s setup and would arrive in Elpis in a few days time to begin their activities, and the time hade to settle the tasks entrusted to Linbelle.
However, Allen''s actions up until this point were only thoroughly prepared with respect to countering the actions of the future Julius he knew of from his past. He didnt imagine that Julius would turn into the person he was at present.
''So now what? What can I do to prevent the schemes of the present Julius? Even if I stop him now, will the real Juliuse back?
That wasn''t it.
His goal was to gather together those who had sought out vengeance against Julius.
He had vowed at the Chimera Sorcerer''s workshop that he would ept the consequences, living with himself and his victims.
Even so, he thought that so long as they were within his reach, he would not turn away like he had with Benjamin.
''But then, why?''
Hadnt he been determined to do anything to get Julius back?
Squeak.
He turned the shower faucet, and the temperature of the water increased even further.
Even then, his inner anxieties still lingered.
However, there was a problem.
''Yes, its not just about the fact that he killed them.
The problem was that he had gotten too close to them.
They were his first equals, the first rtionships hed ever had where he felt like they were on equal-footing. Realizing that, he had given them too much affection. And he had fallen too deep into attachment.
To the point where it felt like a deviation from the n.
Now, would Allen feel as upset as he should over the death of a stranger by Juliuss hands?
Would he feel the same anger as he did now?
''No. I would have gotten a grip, then contacted and recruited any vengeful survivors.
After all, hed never change his behavior. Not then, and not even now. Hadnt he always known that the pile of corpses hed stacked before his regression was as tall as a mountain? Hed seen this time and time again in his reports.
It was just that this was the first time hed ever experienced it in person.
Squeak.
He twisted the shower faucet. The water grew even hotter.
''Yes, this can be used as an opportunity.
Once he brought together all those who were plotting vengeance against Julius, hed now be able to better empathize with them, offering a sense of genuine connectionof shared experience.
Squeak.
He twisted the faucet again. A giant''s flesh wouldnt burn at this temperature.
We were only going to be together for about a month, anyway.
Actually, wasn''t it a good thingthat hed been able to discover such a strong persuasive tool in just a months time?
He would just have to be a little more careful from now on. So that he would never allow this to happen again.
Hed be sure of it.
Squeak.
The stakes had gotten higher. Could he really afford to give in now? Could he find a different game to y?
No, thats not possible.
Hed already poked the dragon. The ending would be one of two things: either he got eaten by the dragon just like anyone else, or he conquered the dragon.
"en!"
Squeak.
His vision had blurred. Perhaps it was the influence of remaining in such a hot space for so long.
ir Allen!
Squeak.
But even now, he wanted to raise the temperature just a little more. Maybe there was something wrong with the pipes todaythe water just wouldnt get hot enough. Maybe he could try just one more time
Thud.
"Sir Allen!"
The bathroom door rattled open, ck hair fluttering past. As she stepped closer, her purple eyes met Allen''s.
"Linbelle? Why are you here?
"I was worried! You didn''te out for three hours. Ah! This water is so hot!
She rushed to swing the faucet back, the water ceasing its flow. She then began to care for him, bringing him arge towel as if it were second nature. Allen was surprised at first, but found he was used to her care.
Only after he was fully clothed did he ask her. "What brings you here?"
Linbelle had been working on Allens assignment for her over thest three months, making her an almost obsolete figure in his life. In the near future, he was going to call upon her to carry out what she had been preparing for, but for now, she was here.
"Hehe. I was worried about you, and my mom told me toe in her ce. She couldn''t be here because of the auction schedule."
She began to fix his hair with a sheepish smile, like a child who wanted to hide a mistake.
"Hmm Well, whats done is done, so its fine."
When she noticed that he didnt mention her disobedience, she moved the scissors carefully with a bright expression.
It grew a lot while I was away, huh? You like it like this, right?
"Yes, that''s enough."
"I know everything about you."
She finished up his hair, looking smug. Even though they hadn''t seen each other in months, she appeared to have be even more proficient.
"Your skills seem to have improved. Have you been practicing on others?"
"Yes! Shes so messy all the time, so I Oh. She stiffened for a moment, suddenly remembering something. Then, she continued her task and cautiously opened her mouth to speak. "There''s someone I''d like to introduce to you."
"Who would that No way."
Nodding her head as if Allen''s guess had been correct, she shouted at the door. I forgot too, so Ill call her right away! Eliana!
When she finished calling, the door of the dormitory opened and a girl appeared. A pale, gray-haired girl with pointed ears and fangs protruding from her lips walked slowly in, looking at them with an unreadable expression.
My name is Eliana. Im from the engineering department.
Chapter 94
Chapter 94
The aristocracy were the sort to consider many options before making a move. From the immediate benefits and consequences of taking any action, to the repercussions and chain of events that were likely to urter down the line as a resultthey were raised to consider every possibility from an early age, and trained to integrate these analyses into every aspect of their daily lives.
Such was the mindset of an aristocrat.
This ethos served as the force that drove the gap betweenmoners and aristocrats ever wider as the generations passed, the deciding factor that afforded any heir the qualification to y the role of the Head of House once he reached the age of maturity.
As technology advanced and the times changed, the importance and influence of everyday people increased. It had progressed to the point where, now, the ordinary man could exert his will in certain ways. Nevertheless, such progress had not yet allowedmoners to truly have a seat at the table.
Allen, as the Reinhart family heir, was educated in this same school of thought. As a result, he always tried to take each and every possible variable into consideration when making any ns.
It was his second time going through life, and as soon as he regressed, this way of living had only grown more intense.
From what would happen in a few months, to what would happen in a few yearshe tried to prepare for the future, not the present, by formting his ns around what woulde about in theing months and years rather than on any sort of short-term basis like weeks or days.
The same went for the matter at hand.
Before hed even nned on matricting into the Academy, Allen couldn''t help but run through as many factors as possible. To date, the gap between him and Julius hadnt been veryrge. Honestly, one could even go as far as to say that Allen had the clear advantage.
But how long would thatst?
Im starting tog behind.
It was a im he could support with evidence.
Allen knew well where exactly he stood. He had immersed himself in magic and magic alone, sacrificed his lifespan, and even sacrificed his life entirely, and the result was eight rings. However, his Rank 8 status was deformedless than half the size it shouldve been and skewed toward one side.
He, thus, found himself in a position wherein he couldnt be guaranteed victory in a head-to-head match with someone one rankor even twobelow him.
He already knew this, because he had struggled to perform at the limits of his skills, nevermind going beyond it.
But what about Julius?
He never stops growing.
An example was just then, during the dungeon practice-raid. Hed suddenly gained the ability of a stars stigma and ran wild.
Allen tried to steal his rewards as much as possible to prevent his growth, taking away Ves and other opportunities to obtain the dragon core and the physical qualities of a giant.
At this point, as long as he tried his best, hed be able to defeat those whod recently reached a Rank 7 position.
But what if it were the average Rank 7?
If he could maneuver himself into close-quartersbat somehow, his chances would be approximately 50/50. If he couldn''t, his best hope was to just aim for a draw.
Rank 7 and above was creeping into superhuman territory. It was the realm of those born as flesh and blood, yet who eventually broke beyond the apanying natural limitations. Entering that world was impossible unless the sorcerer had attained ability equivalent to a Rank 7.
Of course, he had no way of knowing what would happen in the future.
The qualities of the giants body he possessed could develop even further, and there was no way of knowing how strong future forms of Jotunnsverd would be once Ves taught him.
Even so.
Allen had no choice but to prepare, just in case.
His true aim was to find the original Juliuss soul, in addition to killing the one who upied his body. Seeing as no progress had been made on thetter goal, he instead had to widen the gap between himself and Julius in order to buy time.
And that was what hed been preparing for ever since returning to life in the manor.
''Have Linbelle get acquainted with the granddaughter of the Beast King.
She was weak due to the events of her past, and she had affinity for neither the control of auras nor magic.
What if she was approached by Linbelle, established a friendship, and eventually contacted the Cirction in order to use their abilities to treat her constitution?
It would be good to have a connection with the Beast King, but the best result of all would be to be his disciple.
At the same time, he could acquire the qualifications to be an apostle of the Cirction, gaining ess to some of their power and influence.
If this seeds, Ill be able to widen the gap between us and buy more time. But if it fails the length of my roster of enemies will only increase.''
It was a gamble.
Eliana stared at him with her mouth closed until Linbelle finished with his hair and served them all tea.
"Do you have anything to say?"
"No, I was just thinking."
She looked at Allen with an observant gaze for a while, then tilted her head in apparent puzzlement.
"I just can''t figure out why you sent Linbelle to me.
Clink.
Hearing this, Linbelle flinched as she prepared the tea. A surprised look unconsciously flickered over her face and was hidden just as quickly, but Eliana knew that she had been correct just by seeing her reaction.
"And why is that?"
Allen, unlike Linbelle, showed no embarrassment at her words. Hed suspected she might notice. Though he had hoped that he wouldnt get caught, he didnt care if he did, either. After all, he knew Linbelle and her clumsy personality well. It didnt seem reasonable to assume they wouldn''t be found out in the end.
"Well, its simple. You stand to gain nothing from it.
"Gain nothing?"
She nodded her head, indicating that it was obvious. Eliana pointed at herself and opened her mouth to say, "First of all, you must not know, sir
"Please, address me informally."
"Well, you would have had Linbelle approach me knowing that I was the granddaughter of the Beast King. Am I wrong?"
Allen nodded. Apart from him, only the Vice Chairman and other truly high-ranking officials at the Academy knew of her true identity.
"I''m sorry that offends you."
"No, theres no offense at all to be taken. This isnt the first time this has happened and weve gotten along quite well.
She nced at Linbelle as she said that. But Linbelle was carefully watching Allen and his expressions instead and didn''t see.
Did they get unexpectedly close?
It was an oue he hadnt even considered.
"While were on the topic, why would this not be beneficial?
"Grandpa, no The Beast King has no interest in me. A hint of deep self-deprecation crossed her face. Despite being a mix between beast and human, my magic and aura abilities arecking, and my physical body isnt strong, either. To add to the contradictions there" She immediately schooled her expression and went on exining, "The Beast King isnt one to do favors for me just because were blood-rted. I don''t think hed really be very interested in whatever I do, anyway.
There was a faint hint of rage burning in her eyes as she spoke.
I knew that opinions on him were divided, even within the Demihuman Union, but I guess its the same within his own family, too.
Or was it just a reaction toward an unexpected situation?
One side wanted to live a life in the grasnd and preserve traditional values, while the other wanted to use modern technology to develop alongside other poptions. Those who subscribed to thetter point-of-view were typically the weaker ones, not those who could utilize their auras or who possessed great power.
Naturally, she had no choice but to align with thetter.
"But it''s impossible toy a hand on me. Did you know that some families in the past have tried to hold me hostage and were promptly destroyed?"
Elianaughed at him as she shared that anyone whod approached her previously had been wiped outpletely.
"So, sir, I think it best to stop assuming that you can get what you want from me, or rather, from the Beast King."
* * *
* * *
With that, Eliana lifted her tea cup to her mouth, suddenly parched. Allen waited until she had sufficiently quenched her thirst, and then began, That doesn''t matter to me. Rather, I am interested in the princess."
Princess? She narrowed her eyes, thinking about the title, as if it were one she hadnt heard in a long time.
"Me?"
"Yes."
She stared at him nkly for a moment, contemting the true meaning of his words, then blurted out, "Youre actually interested in me?"
"No."
"Okay, but that didnt sound like a joke?"
"I have a fiance."
"I know that."
She appeared lost in thought, turning over the oddity presented to her, and began to sort through her thoughts aloud, one by one.
You approached me because you wanted something from my grandfather, and now youre interested in me because that doesnt seem feasible anymore? But don''t you have any true interest in me?"
"No, I was more interested in you than in the Beast King from the beginning. In your talent as an engineer, to be exact."
Eliana didn''t look suspicious at Allen''s reply.
"Hmm that''s even stranger. So, you approached me even though you knew you wouldn''t get the attention of the Beast king? It was because of my engineering skills? She shook her head, a slight sneer curling her lips. "It still seems more usible to me that youd be aiming for a rtionship with my grandfather facilitated via a marriage with me.
It was a rude remark, showing no regard for Allens honor. Yet he did not rise to her provocations, as he knew that she was speaking deliberately, trying to gauge his reaction.
That was why Allen faced her without any change in disposition.
"Well, I dont know how effective that would really even be. You cant really think the Beast King ispletely uninterested in you?
Can you be so sure of that?
"Well, I really cant really say. No matter how uninterested he may be, he wouldnt be totally unreceptive if his granddaughters constitution were to be treated, would he?
"What?"
Allen opened his mouth, as if excited to tell anybody who was willing to hear it, "I don''t know how likely itd be for him to stay totally uninvolved if his granddaughter were cured.
Her eyes widened as she realized what Allen was saying, her jaw slowly ckening. The tongs that she had used to move cubes of sugar, likewise, unclenched and dropped opened.
Allen grabbed the falling sugar cubes with a thread of mana, setting them into her teacup.
Plop.
The image of his face, smiling leisurely, reflected in her yellow pupils.
"Then let me ask you this time."
Allen opened his mouth, taking his time to savor her expression of astonishment.
Can you really be so sure of that?
She mped her mouth shut.
That was her answer.
* * *
After it had gottente, Allen sent them away, but not before setting up another time to meet. Linbele and Eliana each seemed unwilling to leave for different reasons, but Allen had no choice.
Allen, you''re not really going out there, are you?
''I provoked him myself, how can I not?''
Allen carried Ves at his waist as he grabbed his coat. The presence hed felt from the moment Eliana entered didnt disappear even after she left the room, only bing more and more pronounced.
"How ferocious."
As expected of the Beast King.
It would have been more convenient to call him himself, but what was done, was done.
Allen left the dormitory and walked to where his body led him.
"This is"
The ce where he arrived was the cemetery, where hed happened to stop by that day. He paused there for a moment, then kept walking.
In that now ckened sky, there was nothing like the spectacle hed seen raining down before.
Just the starlight twinkling above, like always.
Even in its usual appearance, the scene was special enough to catch one''s attention. However, Allen couldn''t concentrate on the sight, his eye captured by another.
There at the center of the cemetery, beneath the Milky Way of that stunning night sky, stood a man who exuded an even greater presence.
Once Allen had gotten a little closer, he began, "That was a pretty interesting conversation."
The broad, yellow pupils met Allen''s.
"You said all that even though you knew I was listening?
Despite the terrible smell of alcohol wafting off of the man, Allen could not let his guard down at all.
The man had earned that level of caution.
He was one of the three most powerful among the Top Eight, someone who could single-handedly crumble mountains and go head-to-head with an entire country all on his own.
A living legend who surpassed the limitations of a physical being.
Gaillon the Beast King.
He was the one who had called Allen over, having overheard his conversion with Eliana.
"I didn''t mean to disturb you, sir. I''m sorry to bother you
"No, dont bother. More than that, are you confident?" he interrupted Allen, shaking his hand in dismissal.
Allen knew what he was asking, but he found it difficult to readily answer. He couldnt be 100% sure what the Beast King meant.
"I asked if you were sure."
But, unappreciative of his silence, the Beast King spoke again. His reassertion was apanied with a strong burst of energy.
Gaillon''s expression turned fierce.
Allen, you can''t win this, even with my help. Ves, who had been silent since he first encountered him, affirmed his thoughts.
Allen made his judgment at once.
"Yes. I am quite confident."
"Then that''s enough for now. We can revisit thister, if you fail somewhere down the line. But this is not the time to talk about it."
The pressure pushing on Allen subsided. Gaillon''s expression also turned calm, as if hed never been threatening in the slightest.
Allen realized that he had put up a deliberate front.
Does he reek of booze on purpose? For the act? Or is he really a drunk?
Allen recalled the circting rumors.
"Then why did you call for me?"
"Your sword."
"What?"
Gaillon tapped at his waist, as if warning him not to ask twice.
"Before we talk, raise your sword first, let''s see your skills."
"What do you mean?
Allen tried to get out a sentence, but Gaillon''s movement was even faster. As soon as he disappeared from view, a voice rang out.
"Just so you know, if you don''tst more than five minutes, then that will be the end of our meeting."
A bolt of rm rang through him. Before he could even draw his sword, Gaillon had his arm wrapped around Allens side.
Whoomph!
Allen''s body flew a few steps forward. His eyes filled with astonishment at the sensation of pain that coursed through him, his first taste of it since acquiring the body of a giant all that time ago.
"Hmm, youre tougher than you look. In that case"
Allen clenched his teeth and drew his sword. There was no time to argue. Whatever he had to say, the battle in front of him would have toe first.
"I guess Ill put my back into it this time.
Wham!
His consciousness was flung away from him for a moment.
Unable to fully defend his body, he instinctively twisted to the side. A fist grazed his shoulder as his body spun around to cushion the blow.
"Your reflexes and reaction time are pretty good, too.
Another attack flew in.
It was the first real moment of crisis that hed faced since obtaining this body.
Chapter 95
Chapter 95
A ferocious pressure weighed down upon the whole area.
Of the two, Gaillon''s physique was objectively muchrger and more intimidating than Allen''s. The disparity in size was so great that lines of sight were nowhere near the same level. It was a little funny to think that, inparison to his opponent, Gaillons eyes were practically floating in the sky.
He had even more of a presence than the ancient monster Allen had dealt with just a short while ago.
Was Gaillon a monster in the shape of a person or a person in the shape of a monster?
Allen''s pupils dted. His foe filled his field of vision, and a twinge of tension ran across his skin. He was hesitant to make even the slightest movement.
Get a grip!
At Ves''s cry, Allen forced his eyes shut as he took a step back.
The Beast King was still standing right there. Since the beginning of their battle, he had done nothing but look at Allen, without moving a single step.
A thin smile curled around Gaillon''s mouth.
"Oh, you snapped out of it, huh?
His smile deepened. This opponent was even better than hed expected. Hed called Allen to witness the light he used firsthand, but its quality was even better than anticipated.
"It''s the first time Ive closed my eyes, so it couldnt be helped."
The Beast King clenched and unclenched his hand. He seemed to be recalling the sensation that graced his fist when hed hit him earlier.
Youve got a good bit of courage. Your body is strong, too."
Allen did not reply. It was the right call to make. Standing straight under all that pressure was nearly too much for him to bear.
Yet still, Gaillon, heedless of Allen''s internal struggle, moved slowly. Allen''s senses stood on edge, capturing each and every one of his movements.
Hm Yeah. I was originally going to give you a little tap then just mess around a little but thats no good, is it?
He stopped walking.
"Five minutes."
Would they run out of time? After thinking it over for a moment, Gaillon nodded.
"If you can endure for five minutes, I will take you on as my disciple.
"Are you serious?
Wasnt that your intention from the beginning?"
Allen, now minutely adjusted to the pressure, looked surprised. Hed already seen something in him? Did that change anything about the aftermath of approaching Eliana earlier?
''No, that just means treating her has be even more essential.
They could be even more closely knit.
"But there is one condition."
Yes, sir, Im listening."
Of course he was listening. Gaillonughed as if in a good mood and continued, "Three years from now, you must do one thing for me. So, do you agree?"
Gaillon wore a serious expression as he said this. All traces of his smile had disappeared from his lips and eyes. Allen was rather suspicious of the question.
"Is that all?"
"Yes, thats all. Just one thing once. Nothing more, nothing less. What do you think?"
Honestly was that really even something to worry about?
It was too generous of an offer. He would be a disciple of one of the strongest members of the Top Eightthe benefits of which were more than clear. He would be able to increase his power and raise his reputation, all while maintaining the gap between himself and Julius despite thetters continuous growth.
No way!
And what would he be losing in return? He would just have to do one thing in three years.
Worrying about it when the time came would give him enough time. Who even knew if hed still be fighting with Julius by then?
Youre already my disciple. Turn it down right now! Are you even considering it?
If the task was too difficult or too dangerous, Gaillon wouldn''t have even considered him.
Of course, that man is simr to me in terms of qualifications, no Even though he is weaker than me, he could still teach you a lot, but I can do that for you, too.
Allen made his decision.
"I''ll do it.
Allen! Ves cried. Her tone was serious, unlike anything close to her usually lightheartedness. How could you?! You didn''t even discuss it with me! I have my pride, too! Who am I going to
I''m sorry, but you don''t have a body.''
Her voice cut off.
A moment of silence came upon them. Allens message was clear.
There was a limit to what she could teach him.
Allen and Ves were of different speciesa giant and a human. She taught Allen the appropriate technique for someone with a giants body, but inevitably, there would be things that he fundamentally would not be able to understand.
The more she taught him swordsmanship, the more his own limitations were revealed with every passing day.
They were just two beingsone, a normal being for their kind, and the other, a genius for their kind.
At some point, Allen would no longer be capable of keeping up her teachings.
To get past this obstacle, he needed a teacher to learn from who could stand beside him to help work through any confusion he might have during training.
However, Ves could not be seen flying midair, and Allen had a long way to go, so he couldn''t devote all his time and attention to just one sword.
But still! Still!
Just as Allen was about to answer her, Gaillon interrupted.
"Is your conversation over yet?"
"What do you mean by that?"
"Thats what I mean." He pointed his finger at Allen''s sword. "Your sword. Its an Ego Sword, isnt it?" Before Allen could deny anything, Gaillon shook his head in a knowing way. "If youe with me, you''ll be able to open up your potential to some extent. Isn''t your Ego Sword trying to stop you from bing my disciple?"
"Yes."
"Well, thats only natural, I suppose. Though, I''m afraid your old-fashioned skills will have you falling behind."
What did you say? You old geezer! How dare you speak like that to the!
"If you knew he could ovee his skill limit, then why would you reject me being his teacher? If you were confident in him and in yourself, you would allow it."
That''s
"If you were a real teacher, you wouldn''t even care. But instead I''m afraid Im losing my potential student to some stack of old bones.
Of course, that old stack of bones was proud of herself, so sheughed out loud.
Ha! Yes, well, Allen, do as you please! Learn that old man''s teachings and skills right now! Its not so hard, is it? What? You scared? Come on, show us what youve got!
Ves raved loudly, the whole length of her de rattling.
Gaillon, who had grasped the situation by that alone, smiled mischievously and asked, "So how about it? Did they allow it?
"Yes, she has allowed it."
"Of course she has. Ive done this quite a few times already.
"Are you very familiar with Ego Swords?"
Gaillon nodded without hesitation. "What kind of kids do you thinke here? Sure, Ego Swords are rare on the outside, but not here. Of course thats not exactly the reason why I know so much about them."
The Beast King blurted out thestment as if his mind were elsewhere.
Allen hesitated for a moment, but did not ask for rification. From Allens point of viewseeing as they had no clear rtionship yetthat would be out of line for him to do.
When Gaillon noticed this, he grinned.
"Excellent." He stepped back slowly, distancing himself from Allen. "If you had crossed the line there, that would have been the end. Knowing your boundaries is the most important thing.
The Beast Kingsughter grew stronger.
"I''ll give you three minutes."
* * *
* * *
The baptism of the stars.
As a result of that ritual, he could extend his senses to absorb all the information in the surrounding radius.
"Now that weve been well acquainted
The five senses when extended to the limit forced him to move without conscious thought, and the collected information went beyond prediction and into the realm of temporary foresight.
"Hold out as long as you can.
Allen had no chance to answer, as Gaillon''s body had vanished.
In his mind, the current movements of his foe and the predictions of his future actions intertwined.
Rather than stepping back, Allen closed the gap between them. Hed made note of Gaillon''s speed and power from the previous attack. If his foe was going to be watching, he might as well just put everything on disy.
Allen swung his sword downward, the motion precise. It was an artless blow, devoid of any of Ves''s teachings. However, the force emanating from his muscles was vigorous and one that could not be overlooked.
Gaillon''s response to that was simple.
"Haha, good!"
Gaillon''s sword parried his attacks one after another, prevent Allen''s attacks from causing him any harm.
Allen''s expression hardened at his opponents teasing air, as if he were simply ying around with a young child. He knew that his strength wouldnt be enough to win, but he didnt think that it would have such little impact. At the sight of it, Allen quickly adjusted his stance.
Ves had once said that techniques were meaningless in the face of great power. However, she didn''t say not to look for an opening to use them.
Allen''s shadow rose up. With each step, his shadow melted further into the darkness of the night, creating countless afterimages.
The shadows instantly blended with the image of Allen, disrupting Gaillon''s vision.
Gaillion swung his sword with great force.
Schwing!
The air around them burst as the shadows scattered into the wind.
"You got anything else besides this? Like the orbs of light from before?"
Allen''s bid to close the gap was cut short at once. But hed known that would happen. He was forced to stop, seeing the predetermined events y out as predicted.
Allen''s brow twitched as he swung his sword into a certain position. The sword, now awakened by his anger, strangely fell from his contorted position.
Gaillon responded one beat behind Allen. But the results were no different.
"Are your eyes open? No, theyre not. That''s pretty neat. Not too shabby."
Cough!
Allen''s body twitched as a fist dug into his stomach.
"Except not too shabby is about all it is."
Allen''s body hunched over at the gut-wrenching punch. From there, Gaillon kicked him. Allen couldn''t escape.
Crash!
Allen hit the ground, his body skipping across it a few times, before he finally found his bnce. He was overwhelmed by dizziness for a moment.
When Allen finally overcame the shakiness in his legs, Gaillon''s voice rang in his ears. "Well, how about it? The bnce between the left and right sides of your body got pretty shaken up there. Pretty cool, huh?
When he looked up, he saw Gaillon walking along, leisurely spinning his sword around.
Allen clenched his teeth. His opponent didn''t even use his aura, yet there was still this much difference between them?
He knew that they werent on the same level, and he knew he would lose, of course. He also knew that the task of enduring a fight for a mere three minutes was simply a front to justify epting Allen as his disciple.
But still.
The gap between them was thisrge?
Even with the giant''s body, even using Ves''s sword, he couldn''ty a single finger on him.
Even now, his amplified senses predicted his opponents movements, yet the predictions had no impact on the course of their fight. Allen wasn''t even sure what he was looking at.
"What? Are you upset because you can''t see it?"
Gaillon grinned as if he knew what was bothering Allen.
Allen let go of his hesitation. It was arrogance to say that he would only fight with a sword. He mistakenly thought that since Gaillon was a fellow swordsman that he himselfat least for this duel with the Beast Kingshould stick to the sword.
All hed said was to hang in there.
His threads came loose. There would be no time to use magic. It''d be over as soon as he tried to conjure up anything. No warrior would give a sorcerer a chance to use his magic.
So, as long as he could create an opening
I just need one chance.
Allen rushed in, and they instantly shed. Allen''s whole sword turned red. He couldnt evade his foes speed, and he wascking in strength, so then what?
Sacrifice a pawn in order to pin down the king.
The thread turned into a long dark green spear and shot toward Gaillon. He avoided the attack by twisting in ce, as if he felt no threat.
Allen crouched and dug his right foot deep into the ground. One strike, a diagonal sh up and over. His sword rose as he attacked with all his might.
In the meantime, dozens of dark green spears dug in and restricted Gaillons movement, and Allen ran in toward him.
Watching as Allen came closer, Gaillon snorted in disbelief. "Hah, good. Good!"
Gaillon wound up an attack from where he stood. His fists curled and lodged into Allens side. Allen shouted and grabbed his wrist.
"Ahhh!"
Bear the pain.
Gaillon stopped for an instant, after dispensing that incredible power from his hands.
Empty the dragon''s core.
All the mana in the vicinity was sucked toward Allen, as his sword was bathed in light. The light gathered into a halo before Gaillon could even react.
The Beast Kings eyes opened wide.
"Shall we?"
The light of the sun exploded. There was no answer. Allen closed his eyes, yet no matter how long he waited, he didn''t feel any pain.
When he opened his eyes, a dark-red light was wrapped around Allen''s sword. The light of the sun struggled beneath it, then faded away.
"If you''vee to your senses, step away from this old man."
Gaillon patted him on the shoulder, and Allen involuntarily took a few steps back.
"You were reckless at the end there, but thats okay. Oh, and if you dont think your skills are enough to finish the job, you should at least be prepared to die with your opponent."
Allen hadnt been quite ready to die. He was confident that he could withstand that much of his own attack, and he thought it would be enough to take a shot at the Top Eight member in return for his injury.
Are you usually this stupid? Seriously! What are you doing, acting this recklessly!
Didnt I have to show him my all?
If you can''t hold out, you can just surrender! Who said you had to win?
Allen couldn''t respond.
"I ept you. From today on, youll be my disciple.
Only Gaillon burst intoughter, seemingly satisfied. He recalled Allens final attack.
''Pure light, just like the sun. That should be enough.
That kind of power shouldnt mix with divine powerlike Jaqnellenor artificial powerlike the chairman or her disciple, Maria.
''I found the right person.
He squinted his eyes at the quarter-moon in the sky.
Allen mustered up his strength and returned his throbbing body home. His midnight walk that had begun so suddenly came to its end.
Chapter 96
Chapter 96
There were numerous religions inhabiting the world. After the fall of the temples and the ancient empire, fewer people believed in religion. However, just because the devout poption had lessened in numbers did not mean that it had altogether disappeared.
Humans werent capable of living alone.
They wanted someone to lean on, and many even dreamed of someone deciding the direction of their life. That someone could range from a father or a chief, to a lord or an emperor, but the vast majority of the powerless prayed, instead, for a transcendent figure who didnt exist in reality.
Even if they knew that their god had fallen.
That was why and how religion flourished.
Perhaps it was because it served as a form of support for a person living a hard life, or simply because being religious came with its own benefits, or maybe it even stemmed from true belief in the faith.
Among the many pagan religions was a faith known as ''Circrism''.
The doctrine of Circrism was quite simple: the world repeated a cycle of birth and destruction, and this was called the Cycle.
They said that the world had been in a state of perpetual destruction since the Great Fall. The present was the time taking ce before the birth of a new world, and in order for a new world to be born, the current world must bepletely destroyed.
A part of this rather deranged doctrine was that those who contributed to the destruction would be given the chance to be reborn in the new world. It wasnt umon for those practicing Circrism to be branded as radicals and banished. In fact, it was strictly prohibited, seen as heresy, in most countries.
However, their presence was sometimes tolerated in selected areas because of certain functions and utilities they afforded. Those managing certain conflict zones, for example, condoned their activities because Circtors rejected everything that did not belong in this world.
Necromancers, demon contractors, demons, the Demon King, foreign invaders And so on.
They reasoned that foreign entities were not to be present in their newly born world.
Whats more, it was rare that they caused any direct harm to civilians, as Circtors believed that the world should be led to natural destruction rather than artificial destruction. In their eyes, it was more natural for a war to be caused by taking out one powerful person than to kill a dozen or a hundred innocent civilians indiscriminately. Therefore, there was always longstanding strife wherever the various sects following the doctrine went.
If they hadnt attacked the Academy in myst life, they would have still existed intact.
Shortly after the failed attack on the Academy, the Beast King himself came forward and destroyed their central altar, setting off the chain of events that culminated in their organizational copse.
In the end, a woman close to JuliusAveline, the escaped heretic saintessabsorbed all of their lost power.
Allen''s actions were no different than hers.
Then what was an apostle?
The role of an apostle may vary by religion, but the role of the apostle in Circrism was to provide one thing alone.
''One who provides direct evidence of the worlds impending doom.
In other words, one who was able to prove to the world and to the organization that their world was soon to vanish in the near future.
For that same reason, it was decided that Allen could y the position of apostle.
The regressor That really makes me feel like I''ve be some kind of prophetic apostle.
Would other apostles appear?
It didn''t matter. As long as Allen could fill the position, no one else around him would be chosen as an apostle.
Once he had finished organizing his thoughts on the subject, he heard a voice calling out to him.
"Apostle-elect, we have arrived."
When he came to his senses, arge rock obscured the view ahead.
Their destination was a few hours from the Academy. The deste, red y cliffs stood at sharp angles, as if they had been whittled down by the wind for a long time.
The rock face rising above the desert sand served as andmark within the desert.
"This is it?"
"Yes, apostle-elect."
The day after Allen became Gaillon''s disciple, he was able to meet and be guided by another Circtor priest through Loren, the student councils secretary who had sent the letterst time.
They moved as quickly as they could, as if they had been waiting for Allen to arrive. While they traveled, Allen never asked even the smallest question, as if he had been given orders not to do so, and kept his distance from start to finish.
"Then, please enter when youre ready. The prophet has been waiting for a few days now."
Rumble, rumble.
A priest named Mn approached the rock first and pressed something on its face. The wall opened with a small vibration, creating a passage in the rock.
Is this a secret base for the Circtors?
Allen walked forward, his steps dignified and mind calm, showing not even a single outward hint of surprise.
He was a prospective apostle, here to be officially confirmed. Even if the proof of his ethos had nothing to do with his outward appearance, this would surely be better than showing a timid and foolish expression.
As if to corroborate that Allen he belonged among them, Mn, who was guiding him, felt a bud of anticipation sprout and disrupt his usually unshakable attitude, even though Allen had yet to prove his worthiness.
The passage was dark, but so dark that he couldnt see whaty ahead of him. At its end was no great battle nor even a magnificent mural awaiting.
Instead, there was a modest roomjust a small room hewn out of the stone.
Perhaps unable to afford even a wooden door, the boundary between the inside and outside of the room was marked by a thick cloth.
"Please, enter. I shall stay here.
When Allen pushed past the thick cloth, something he had never imagined weed him.
Allen stopped walking and looked back hastily. However, the thick cloth through which he had entered had vanished.
He found himself enveloped inplete darkness, without even a spark of light.
This wasnt a space hed expected from a ce carved out of rough, stone walls. He turned his head forward again.
"Where am I?"
There, the yawning abyss devoured him whole.
* * *
The celebration of the Cycle was a secret ceremony within Circrism.
Destruction, cirction, reincarnation.
Wishing for destruction.
Waiting for cirction.
Faith in reincarnation.
The ritual was a minor ceremony among the many festivals, but its spiritual importance was no less than that of the Grand Festival. It could be organized by any one of the prophets, and only high-ranking officials were allowed to be present.
At present, there were no more than five people there officiating and observing Allen''s ceremony.
The organizer of this ceremony and the third prophet, ''Burnt Roots, opened his mouth.
"Cough, cough! Apostle! Proceed!"
He had the distinct green skin of a goblin and a short stature to match.
It was quite a ridiculous sight to see a creature that would have been hunted as a monster outside wearing a luxurious robe, but no one here questioned him.
Next to him was the archbishop, who had been sent to assist the third prophet. He is asking about the progress of the apostles candidacy.
"Lies! Cough! Oh, my! Cough, cough!
"If it is false, let them pay for their sins by death. Should they have fulfilled the true qualifications, inform our brothers and sisters.
The archbishop tranted his words calmly without blinking. His eyes glistened behind his monocle.
The third prophet, ''Burnt Roots, nodded to indicate his trantions were correct.
The high priest had been watching the scene and now answered, gauging the ceremonys progress. "Currently the prerequisite verification of the apostle-elect who entered the void has concluded.
"Is it true, or is it false?"
"Fortunately, it is true."
All those present there breathed a sigh of relief at his words.
"Then, now
Now that we know that the definitive destruction of the future is foreordained, we are checking on the details.
"Look! Me! Cough, cough! Question!"
The archbishop, nodding to his words, questioned the high priest. "He is asking if he will be able to see the apostle-elect."
The high priest looked at the archbishop with a grim face for a moment, then shook his head and activated a device with his hand.
The wall right in front of him turned transparent, revealing Allen to his audience. He sat on the floor with a calm expression, maintaining totalposure despite the whole world having gone ck.
The eyes of those who observed this scene were bright.
"Now, let us hear what he is most curious about."
As soon as Burnt Roots nodded, a voice whispered through the ck space. The sound could have beening from afar and from within the ear itself at the same time. Upon first hearing it, it sounded simultaneously like a woman, a man, a child, and an elderly man.
"When shall the end of the beginninge about?"
Allen answered slowly with a tranquil expression. "It will be in ten years at thetest."
Again the voice asked, "Can''t you tell me exactly when?"
"Depending on a number of variables, it could be tomorrow or a week after that. But it must happen at some point."
The ambassadors who were observing the answer felt a sense of trust.
It wasnt that they felt distrust. Rather, they wouldn''t have believed him if he had told them any exact date. They were relieved to hear his answer, which seemed ambiguous at first nce, but contained a definite substance and confidence.
What they had done to get here hadnt been in vain.
"By whose hand does this ende about?"
The Demon King.
At his words, the high priest gasped. Destroyed not by quarrels amongst themselves, but by a form of foreign invasion?
"And then a white, ck, and gray light will fill the world."
"White, ck, and gray
Was that some sort of allusion to something? The official who was next to him hastily scribbled down his words.
"Now, I will ask you onest question. What is the greatest variable in this destruction?"
"The greatest variable is
Controlling his emotions as they threatened to boil over, Allen spoke clearly and concisely.
An invader of this world, an evil spirit from outer space, and a demon who controls the world.
An alien who wore the shell of his younger brother.
"The possessor."
* * *
* * *
The celebration of the Cycle hade to an end.
Allen was able to leave the room following thest question. At some point shortly thereafter, he pushed aside the thick cloth that once again covered the entry to the dark space and found himself in a position no different from when Mn had brought him there.
He bowed as soon as he saw Allen. "I see you now, apostle! The prophet is currently waiting for you, so I will guide you to him immediately."
Allen nodded silently.
Next to the room Allen entered, there was another he hadnt seen before. He pushed past the thick cloth into the room.
Again, the priest named Mn did not go inside.
Rustle.
When he entered the room and turned to look around, he saw that it was not nketed with darkness like the first room.
"W-worry. Cough. You!"
When he turned his head, a goblin dressed in an antique, brown robe shouted at him.
Allen bowed his head, not wanting to be rude. "Its a pleasure to meet you, Third Prophet ''Burnt Roots."
"Cough, cough, cough!"
"He says it''s nice to meet you, too."
"And you are"
Allen looked up, and the young man wearing a monocle bowed gracefully.
"My name is Archbishop Hamel, and I havee to assist the prophet."
"Nice to meet you."
"My role is to convey the words of the prophet, so I hope you don''t mind."
Allen nodded at his demeanor as it cut through the atmosphere like a sword.
"Understood."
The third prophet, ''Burnt Roots'', waited until they had finished talking before he opened his mouth.
"D-destruction! Foresight! Apostle! Reward! Conversation! Cough."
"The prophet asks if you know anything more about the future you mentioned earlier. Also, he asks if you know of anything else at all.
Allen calcted for a moment, then shook his head. "I''m sorry, but I don''t know any more than that. If anything newes up, I''ll tell you immediately."
There was no doubt that he knew more than that, but they quickly moved on to the next question.
"Decline! I! Reward! Cough, cough! Cirction!"
"He appreciates that you responded without hesitation, and wishes to reward you. He congrattes your receiving the blessing of the Cycle.
Allen didn''t mind his somewhat grotesque appearance. Or at least, he was not surprised because he had known of the prophets appearance from investigating it in advance. The reward, however
Burnt Roots, could you possibly heal someone whose roots have been twisted by the evil of foreign forces?
The reason why Allen tried to contact the Circtors was right in front of him.
"Cough?"
"Of course it''s possible but he asks why you want to know."
The third prophet, Burnt Roots.
The only goblin in the world to utilize the blood of a fairy, and who realized that the goblins themselves had once been fairies in a distant, now ancient time before bing fallen creatures.
Thus, his name was the Burnt Roots.
Charred, twisted, and corrupted from the ground up.
Therefore, he had the ability to return that which was destroyed and perverted to their original state.
"In that case, could you please fix my friend? She was attacked when she was young and was fortunately able to be healed. But in return, her body''s constitution waspletely ruined."
She was weak even though the blood of the Beast King coursed through her veins. She possessed the blood of both humans and demi-humans, yet was not talented in anything.
That was the condition of Eliana''s body.
"Please treat her."
"More!"
"Is that enough?"
"Yes, that''s enough."
Allen took a step back with a nod. It wasn''t that there was nothing more to be gained there, but he knew it wasn''t good to be greedy.
He needed to be careful still, as he had not yet cemented his position within this organization. He needed to wait at least until hepletely assimted.
"Tomorrow! Cough! Door!"
"Then why don''t you meet us back at the entrance here tomorrow?"
"I will do that."
The archbishop showed no personal feelings throughout his conversation with Allen. But seeing hisck of greed, the corners of Hamel''s eyes rxed slightlya soft sign of satisfaction.
"Well, Ill be going, then. Ill see you all again tomorrow.
They nodded. Allen bowed politely and then walked out of the passageway.
Thump.
The opening within the rock closed. Even if looking closely, the invisible outline of the entrance could barely be seen.
As he returned to the city, Allen was lost in thought.
He thought about what happened in the first room.
A room to enforce the concept
It wasn''t long after Allen entered the room that he felt a force constricting him.
The force did not have any sort of detrimental effect on him, but it was forcing him to abide by certain conditions.
It was only when he tried to conjure lies that he felt its influence strongly.
The moment Allen was about to lie in answer to a question, he felt a forcepelling him to stop. However, Allen''s immediate feelings at that time werent bewilderment nor embarrassment.
''Something more like I knew that I could get away with it?
Allen felt that, though he could notpletely free himself from the force weighing on him, he could deflect it a good deal.
He didn''t know why, but he made the most of it.
He exaggerated the fact that the destruction would take ce within ten years, and that the Demon King would destroy the world.
The thing about the world of white, ck, and gray was also just a quote from the text in the ruins.
And hisst answerbait to draw the Circtions interest to him.
The possessor.
Considering the information hed hinted at, they wouldn''t even care what Allen would be doing for the time being.
Theyd be too busy interpreting Allen''s vague words. Opinions would be divided on whether to stop the Demon King first or to push forward, furthering their man-made destruction.
Even if the position of the apostle in Circrism was a special one, it wasnt safe to say that there was no danger to it. It was better not to bother too much with it in the beginning stages.
Now, little by little, the evidence will be pieced together, and Juliuss identity will be fully known to the Cirction
The ''real'' n would soon begin.
Squeak.
Allen adjusted his old stirrups as he went back to the city.
Squeak! Squeak!
His stirrups creaked all the way back.
Chapter 97
Chapter 97
A small bar in Kairan, the city of adventure.
The tidy little nook stood out for being free of the stale stenches and screams of rotting wooden furniture that characterized any other bar. However, the bar was rarely open, as if it had no business, and it was rather unusual for its old owner who ran the bar alone without any help.
Nevertheless, its shelves were stocked with many kinds of alcohol unlike other small bars, and people wearing ornate clothes were regrs, making the bar a secretly popr spot. The old butterfly-shaped sign out front was praised for being antique.
It was the sort of hole-in-the-wall restaurant that could be found in any city, except that the ce was rumored to have been overrun by gangsters looking to shake down their targets and had, at some point, vanished off the map.
That was why no ordinary person in the city knew of it.
The small bar was one of the branches of Psyche, a well-known information guild in the central region of the continent. The asional visitor to the ce was typically one who came to buy information.
Even the citys poprity was a product of their maniption and maneuvering.
Two men upied one of the underground chambers there, in Psyches building.
One was the owner and bartender of another, more renowned bar, and the other was an old man with a white beard and a thick waist. Thetter wore an outfit stained with a tinge of red, and held an old cane in one hand. His expression, filled with a certain sense of duty, made him look dubious of his conversational partner.
"I think we''re more or less ready now. As the new Kairan branch manager and still an active informant, he smiled kindly. "Of course there are still some parts that are a little rough around the edges, but there is nothing more we can do to deceive them.
At his satisfied expression, the look on the face of Cophis, the old man next to the branch manager, shifted. Expression greedy and back bent like a beggar, he began to rub both hands together, as if they had never reached this point before.
"Th-then youre gonna give me the reward you promised? It''s been three years already! Three years! If you''re tryna cheat me, you''re gonna!
"That expression. The branch manager still smiled kindly at his sudden change in attitude and spoke. "Mind the expressions, now, Cophis. We have to wait for the apostle, no?
"Y-yes. I forgot myself for a minute there But I I should be getting my money, shouldn''t I?
Sigh. The branch manager stared at him with contempt.
Despite being slightly intimidated by his look, Cophis did not stop talking. "Well, a contract is a contract! You told me to pretend to be a fake prophet for just a few years
"And didn''t you say you would give me as much gold as I wanted? And that''s why I had to stick it out for a few years! I-I need gold! Heedless of the rising tension, he demanded his gold coins with desperate eyes.
The branch manager couldnt believe that, just moments before, the figure in front of him had carried such an air of reverence and of some sublime purpose. He was not the lonely prophet known to the public, but a gambling addict, often throwing away all his money in the back alleys.
"I''ve done so much for so long! I changed the way I talk! I practiced facial expressions and gestures! I even built up muscles at this old age just like you told me to!
"Bryna."
The branch manager called out to his subordinate, pretending to no longer hear him.
Scuff.
At that same moment, as if she had been waiting for this signal, a woman came in with a huge sack of gold coins the size of an adult.
"Gold! My gold!"
When the sh of light from the gold coins inside the bag caught his eye, Cophiss expression twisted as he shoved his entire upper body into the bag. The disturbing, disgusting sight forced the branch manager to stifle a sudden urge to kill him right then and there.
''Really, how ugly can a person even be.''
However, had it not been for these conditions, it wouldnt have been possible to infiltrate the Circtors.
Circtors always found their apostle, without fail.
For someone like the branch manager, not following the groups collective cause or believing in their prophecies just wasn''t possible.
That was why they had to resort to pulling from such a lowly poption. The only people who didn''t turn to religion, and thus the ones chosen for this task, were those drunk on gambling and sex.
It had taken three years to build up the false prophets public image.
''To think that a person like this is the one were entrusting with this role of representing Circrism and serving as the chosen one.
The branch manager choked on his regret as he recalled the man of prophecy who hade here a few months prior.
Even if they supported him indirectly, it was regrettable that they could not directly help him.
Nevertheless, it couldnt be helped. It was something that Master Kasha, who knew of his situation, had personallymanded.
"Well then, I have other obligations that require my attention, so I will take my leave. Youll be in contact with Cirction tomorrow, so please be prepared."
"M-money! Hahahaha! My lovely, little golden coins!
Cophis shook his head to and fro, as if he had already tuned out any other noise.
The branch manager stared at him with cold eyes, then exited toward the sound of a waiting customer.
Not long after the branch manager left, a young man opened the door in a rush, gasping for breath.
m!
"Mr. Cophis!"
He was one of the people who would go to meet the Circtors along with Cophis.
"Wh-what is it?"
Perhaps surprised by the sudden loud noise, Cophis, who had been busy stuffing his entire body into the sack, hurriedly turned around.
"Cardean, you! Don''t interrupt my precious time! How many times is this now?!"
"S-sorry No! This is urgent!"
"What''s urgent!
"The Circtors!"
Cophis paused at the mention of the Circtors. For some reason, something felt ominous to him. He was happy to receive some of thepensation that had been promised to him, but now what?
"The Apostle of Prophecy has appeared to the Circtors!"
"What?"
For a moment, he didn''t process the words. However, since this matter had a chance of being rted to his precious gold coins, his face quickly paled.
"The apostle? Then what about me? What about my gold?"
His mind began to race through calctions. If things continued on like this, he wouldnt receive more gold. So what was the solution?
He quickly came up with a way.
"How long has it been?"
"What?"
"How long has it been since you heard that a new apostle had been chosen?"
At his loud shout, the young man thought for a moment and quickly answered, "A day! No, it''s only been 17 hours!"
"Really?"
If it had only been that long since the apostle appeared, there wouldnt be too much resulting confusion if the identity of this new apostle were to be changed.
If someone wanted to be an apostle, what should they do with the one who previously upied that position?
"Let''s go!"
"What? Where?"
"No, bring them all!"
When Cardean looked puzzled, Cophis shouted loudly, his face hardened at the vision ying in his mind of the gold coins flying away. "All the guys I go around with, bring them armed and ready!"
"Oh, I see!"
Cophis ran to the ce where the information was kept, taking advantage of the young mans efforts to gather the others.
"Mr. Cophis, what are you!
"Get out of my way! I got permission from the branch manager! Are you going to take responsibility for stopping me? He yelled and proudly found the fresh information about the new apostle.
Maybe he was able to find it so quickly because it had juste in. Soon after he located the information, he left with the documents before the branch manager could take notice.
Off toward the ce where that new apostle had appeared.
Moments before thatmotion took ce within the Psyche branch, the branch manager had been in the middle of receiving a request.
"So, youre looking for information regarding the rumors of demons?
"Yes."
"Regardless of how much the request fee is?"
"The more, the better. Im willing to pay extra for the quality and difficulty of the service."
After taking a long pause, the branch manager decided how to handle therge request.
So this is the Academy''s rising star with a promising future, the one currently at the top of his ss
If he could just thread this needle, manipte his movements just so, the branch manager would be able to help the chosen one.
Still feeling sorry for Cophis, he was about to respond with an affirmative when he heard a loud noise from outside.
"Get out of my way! I got permission from the branch manager! Are you
What''s going on?
His face hardened at the unwee sound, and he bowed to the one standing opposite him.
"My apologies, something seems to have happened. I must go take care of this quickly, but Ill get back to you promptly."
He knew he needed to build a good rapport with his clients in order to gain an advantageous and influential position in the future.
"Of course, this isn''t the end, is it?"
"Yes, I will ept this request free of charge as an apology.
The branch manager and the ck-haired man with which he spoke, Heisel,ughed happily at this unnned negotiation.
"Then I''lle back in a few days."
* * *
* * *
The day after the ceremony, Allen left the city with Eliana, who had visited him early that morning.
From the time she first met him, she wanted to ask how he could fix her body and was a bit taken aback when hed told her they would need to leave the city. However, when he exined that their destination was just outside city limits, she forced herself not to question it.
At least he was the disciple of her grandfather, the Beast King. Since he was already his disciple, he would have no reason to harm her.
With that, Allen led her to the samerge rock where hed found himself yesterday.
A look of puzzlement crossed her face. Why had he brought her here? She turned around.
Just as she was about to open her mouth to speak to Allen, she was suddenly ovee by a wave of sleepiness.
"Sir, there''s nothing here, wait Why am I so sleepy Ah."
Thud.
Allen caught her before her body hit the ground and said, "Come out now."
As soon as he spoke, the crack in the rock spread apart and the group walked out.
"Cough! Apostle! Violent! Hehehe, kidnapping!"
The apostles methods appear to be quite radical and intense, so he says that it feels almost like a kidnapping. Behind Burnt Roots, Hamel smiled wryly and looked at him.
"You know that we cant reveal anything about the Circtors. It cant be helped.
Allen didn''t want to force Eliana to faint, either. But how could he tell her that her treatment would have to be carried out by the hands of Circrist pagansspecifically one of the five prominent prophets who lead them.
He questioned whether or not she would have faith in the treatments effectiveness in the first ce, and whats more, shed certainly try to uncover their rtionship with Allen.
So Allen had no choice but to brute force his way through it a bit.
You really cant deny that you look like a kidnapper right now.
''Ill apologizeter.''
Allen could not deny Ves''s words. It definitely wasnt a good look to take a girl out of the city and immediately knock her out.
"Well, shall we proceed?"
"Cough, cough!"
"By all means."
Allenid her down on her back and sat by her side.
Even though they had epted him as an apostle, it was still hard to fully trust them.
They didn''t say anything about Allen''s behavior, seeming to understand. Of course, Burnt Roots couldnt care less about his behavior.
"Cough, cough!"
Burnt Roots pricked the tip of his finger with a dagger, shedding a few drops of blood.
Most goblins didnt utilize this power.
There were a few goblins that used sorcery, but only a handful among them were sorcerers. Within that already small group, he was the only one with the ability to awaken his fairy''s blood as a goblinan amazing feat.
So it really wasn''t a lie that he can use fairy''s blood, was it?
He could feel the surprise in Ves''s tone. Allen agreed with her. Both before and after his regression, he had heard the rumors, but they didntpare to what he now witnessed.
The blood of the third prophet was milky whitea color that could never be believed to havee from the goblin''s body. The bubbling, white blood fell upon her stomach and was absorbed into her skin without resistance.
After that, Eliana''splexion changed. Her pale lips spat out a steady groan as ck smoke rose up from her body.
This outward stream of dusty, foggy air continued on for a while.
Once the ck smoke had dissipated, his green skin turned white, and he backed away.
"Hehe, hehe"
"He says the treatment was sessful."
Upon inspection, her face appeared to be peaceful. She looked like she could wake without outside assistance.
Allen thanked them. Even if it was a promise, it didn''t appear to have been easy on him, judging by hisplexion.
"Thank you."
Cough
"I greatly appreciate your services. Also"
Burnt Roots made eye contact with Hamel, as if he felt toozy to talk and nodded. Hamel also opened his mouth, as if he understood his signal.
"He said it was a curse that was difficult for him to bear. He says also that it would have been hard if the remnants of the curses power were any stronger.
"Cough!"
"Of course, he says it''s nothing because he''s already dealt with it."
If the remnants of a curse from which shed already recovered were so great
''What in the world had she been subjected to?
Allen didn''t know much about her. Only the information known to the public.
While the Beast King was away, his tribe was attacked by vampires, and Eliana had been the sole survivor. The Beast King, infuriated by the massacre, wandered the continent in search of revenge.
Allen guessed that the issue regarding his task in three years time that the Beast King spoke of was vaguely rted to this as well.
"Cough, now! Go! Cough! Us! Apostle!"
When he turned his head, the Circrism officials were ready to go.
"Well then, we have other business to attend to, so well be heading out. We wish peace upon our new apostle.
"I''ll contact you as soon as any future revtionse to me."
Burnt Roots nodded coolly.
"Farewell, then, apostle."
We pray that the rest of your journey will befortable and that you will be strong and maintain faith in the blessings of the Cirction.
"See you at the next general assembly."
With that, they quickly left.
Allen watched as they disappeared over the horizon, then lowered his head.
"Safe travels."
Allen moved Eliana into the shade and waited for her to wake up. Just as the light that had been shining dutifully upon the world turned scarlet and the moon faintly appeared at the other end of the sky, he heard a sound.
"Hmm Mm, uh?"
Allen turned his head and saw Eliana looking around in bewilderment.
"Oh? Where am I? Hmm?
"Princess Eliana."
"Oh, princess Sir Allen?"
Perhaps havinge to her senses, she turned her head toward the direction of his voice.
"Sir, why are? No, wait. I was so sleepy and
Anger began to seep into her eyes as she gradually regained her memory.
I assure you, sir, youre going to have to exin why exactly I am here! she shouted as she checked over her dress.
"Of course. First of all, I apologize. And as for why I did that
Allen meant to calmly inform her of her physical condition first. He hadnt meant to threaten her in any way, only to treat her.
Seeing her furious expression, it was obvious to him that there had been a misunderstanding.
Rumble, rumble, rumble.
However, before he could continue, Allen snapped his head around to stare at the edge of the horizon.
"That''s"
Dust clouds arose from ground-shaking vibrations, along with voice-cracking shouts.
"There it is! There! Catch it! Catch him! No, kill him!"
A band of bandits had appeared.
Chapter 98
Chapter 98
The dust cloud approached at a rapid pace. Allen expanded his senses to scan the area and said slowly, "I think we need to deal with that first.
"Agreed.
Eliana nodded her head gently, as if to say that she, too, thought that dealing with the bandits should be their priority. However, that didnt dissuade her from her doubts about Allen.
Allen uttered only one sentence to her.
"While I deal with them, why don''t you take stock of your body?"
"What?"
"Don''t you feel any different from usual?
She closed her eyes for a moment and then looked surprised.
"Wait, don''t tell me!
"I''ll talk to you a littleter."
Allen shrugged off her call for an answer and rushed forward.
Aren''t you being a bit too much of a tease? You said that on purpose, didnt you?
Is that how that felt to you? Hm, how strange.
I suppose so.
Isn''t it better to resolve misunderstandings quickly?
He just thought the best way to relieve her anger would be to direct her emotions elsewhere.
Allen could spare the time to chat with Ves like this for no other reason than simply because the opponent wasnt yet in sight.
The chimera sorcerer, dark sorcerers, ancient monsters, the list continued on
Compared to the foes hed faced thus far, these bandits were a group that didnt really require much effort from Allen.
Allen had moved toward them so quickly for the sole purpose of giving Eliana some space and time to think.
Allen stopped once the bandits were moderately close.
The Call of the Cradle can be dangerous to Eliana if shes this close
Allen closed his eyes. Hed test out something new this time.
A thread began to unravel from his core. He hadnt used this kind of pure magic in a long time. He took a moment to really appreciate it, since hed just been using swordstely.
The threads gathered quietly under Allen''s control.
''I have a good feeling about this.
There were many things that were necessary to know in order to learn a new formation and how to magically reproduce it.
It wasnt the kind of technique that could sessfully function when built from a rough understanding. Rather, he needed to understand the mechanics of each instrument, exactly what, where, and how to utilize eachponent, and to be able to form it out of nothing with his eyes closed.
It wasn''t that difficult. Hed already grown tired of it before his regression, and hed picked up a trick or two from doing it so many times.
There was only one thing that mattered.
''How well I understand the instrument.
The current shape of the thread in his mind was simr to a cello, but twice as small, with the ends woven into a square-shaped body.
The morin khuur was a musical instrument from the grasndan instrument that captured the endless grandeur of the broad horizon and the living, breathing creations inhabiting it.
That was why even though the notes produced sounded like a horse''s hooves, it also flowed forth like the wind brushing against the short grass.
If he could understand this, then even if he couldnt y the instrument perfectly like a real musician, his instrument still contained a beating heart. It was alive.
"Its name is yes."
I ced the thread between his fingertips.
Mimicking that which hed learned in his Orchestra (I) ss.
"Freedoms madness.
Two strings rang together, and his magic stretched out far enough across the in to be seen by the naked eye.
The resulting gust of air swept over them like the wind, passing by calmly as if yielding no effect.
"H-his magic has no effect! Come on, get closer! Come on!"
"Hes toast once we get to him!
"Hurry up and go!"
The sound continued to graze past them. They sped forward faster, faster, fasteruntil one of the running bandits copsed.
The fallen man had died of a broken neck. But no one looked at him.
"Let''s go a little faster!"
"Gold! We need more gold! More, more!"
"M-me first!"
Before they even knew it, their eyes were turning red. Not only the bandits, but also the horses on which some rodetheir eyes turned red as they snorted.
The bandits all continued running, despite their fading physical strength.
As they continued to run, one of the devilish bandits threw a sword at hispanion in front of him.
Stab!
"Get out of my way, get out of my way! Im going first! I have to go!"
One more person died. That was just the beginning. Everyone swung their swords at each other to get ahead. Allen sat back.
"You lowlifes! Out of the way! My gold is waiting for me!"
"Get out of my way, old man! Im going to go get my gold Argh!"
Two people now three more had died.
The more he yed the strings, the bolder their attacks became, and the clearer their vicious intentions became. They dispersed, stabbing their colleagues in the back, even grabbing at the ankles of those still standing once they had fallen.
When Allen''s song had finally concluded, there was only one person who reached him.
"Die! Die! Give me my gold!
It was an old man, who had given orders to the bandits. The man, unusually fit for his age, crawled toward him with his thighs pierced and torn to shreds.
Hes a little old to be doing all this, isnt he? Is there a reason why hes still here?
But Allen didn''t care too much. No matter the reason, the old man had still attacked him and made an attempt on his life.
That was all that mattered.
The moment Allen was about to kill him and turn away, a phrase he hadn''t been expecting came from the old mans lips.
"The apostles position! It was mine!"
"What?"
Just a little more and it all wouldve been perfect! If things had only gone ording to the original n!
Allen hurriedly knelt down in front of the old man and raised him by his cor.
"What? What did you just say?
At that moment, a powerful spell surged from the old man. Allen instinctively backed away. The ne around the old man''s neck emitted a bright light.
"Help me"
Bang!
The old man''s head imploded, and blood and flesh poured down.
The old man died before he could utter a proper sentence. A truly unnatural situation.
* * *
* * *
Allen hurriedly stepped forward to retrieve as much information as he could from the decapitated body. However, before he could take a full step, the space before him rippled.
Poof!
An old man appeared in front of the corpse.
Both the old man who had just died and the newly appeared, skinny old man gave off a faint stench of alcohol.
It was a bizarre situation.
Who was this dead old man? Who was the old man who just appeared? Was the deceased man referring to a Circrism apostle?
He was supposed to be in the apostles role?
Allen''s mind spun round and round.
An old man who imed that the appointment of the apostle position was nned. When he tried to share any information, his head burst, and another old man appeared.
It was all a coincidencetoo much of a coincidence.
Something beyond Allens knowledge had clearly interfered, even before hed risen to the position of apostle.
Or at least, thats what he had no choice but to believe.
''But, is that really right?
Who were these people? And what n was he talking about?
Allen pulled back before he could sink too deeply into the rabbit hole of that idea and raised his head. Before his eyes, he saw a skinny old man with a stern expression looking toward the dead old man.
"So."
The old man turned his head.
"Who are you?"
The old man straightened the simple suit he was wearing, as if he hade to his senses upon uttering those words and bowed to him.
"First of all, I would like to apologize to you, sir. You must have been surprised by this incident.
"I asked who you are.
When Allen looked at him unshaken and asked this, he introduced himself without dy.
"My name is me, the head of the Kairan branch of Psyche, the Central Intelligence Guild.
"Can you exin what''s going on?"
"Yes, of course.
He pointed to the dead old man with a gentle smile, much the opposite of Allen''s vignce.
"First of all, this is an information repository that escaped from our guild."
"An information repository"
His tone was that of someone discussing an object rather than a human, as t as it had been throughout the conversation so far.
"Yes. The quantity of information thates into our guild is enormous. But the amount of information that each branch can bring in is limited. Our solution to this is the information repositories.
When Allen did not reply, he continued to exin.
"Since the amount of information that can be physically transmitted and transferred is limited, this system is responsible forpacting the information into one person and updating the information from branch to branch. This is one of the information repositories we''ve been developing for decades."
"But what does that have to do with attacking me?
The skinny old man shook his head, his expression clouded with regret.
"It has expired.
"Expired? I don''t think thats a word that you use for a person.
"Certainly. However, I ask for your understanding because there are no other words to exin this matter properly. Allow me to exin
The dead old man, Cophis, had been wandering the continent for decades, serving as an information repository, and thest ce he arrived was the Kairan branch. However, as a result of chronic overwork and his old age, hed gone insane.
"Can you imagine, sir? In those decades, a walking library travels around the continent gathering more information in its head than can fit."
"Then what about what I heard? Something about previously holding the apostle position
"That can be exined by the same reasoning.
He med the utterance on thest piece of information Cophis had memorizedabout the new apostle of the Circtors.
That was how he knew that Allen was the new apostle and was able to find him ande here.
"In the end, his head exploded because he tried to reveal our information on his own And that, too, is why I have appeared here.
The skinny old man exined that Cophis wouldnt typically reveal information because he knew his head would explode, but the dead old man seemed to have forgotten it in his madness.
His exnation seemed quite usible.
If he hadnt already experienced a regression, Allen would have believed him wholeheartedly. Because of his experiences, he could tell that the old man''s words were mixed with logic and truth.
That was why Allen didn''t believe him.
The existence of information repositories itself must have been true. But everything else was false.
The existence of an information repository wandering around on its own would most likely have caught the attention of anyone in power. However, that story had nevere to pass.
Allen knew, after all, that a real apostle of prophecy would soon appear.
Circumstantial evidence suggested that the identity of the apostle was likely to be a dead old man.
His presence, along with the events hed gone through in his first pass at life, made it possible to surmise what they were attempting.
''The division of Cirction.''
Another supporting piece of evidence was the use of space-shifting.
Spatial travel may seem prevalent due to its frequent appearance at the Academy, ruins, and while around Rachael. However, in general, spatial travel was very rare.
Allen spent ten years attempting spatial magic before ultimately failing, yet a branch manager was using it?
For daily use?
It doesn''t make sense.
From the perspective of a leader of Psyche, such magic wasnt the sort of thing that should have been used in this situation. Had the old mans head simply exploded and no one showed up, nothing would have been revealed.
However, me had appeared to prevent Allen from exploring Cophis''s body. His very presence instead supported Allen''s spection.
He had to hold himself back.
He wanted to interrogate him and ask him what Psyche really was, but
"So why are you blocking me? I don''t think I heard the reason behind you stealing my loot."
Allen couldn''t do that.
He didnt know the true extent of their power.
In order to be an apostle of Circrism, one must have some form of knowledge of the future. Allen was a regressor, so he could pretty well make it up to attain a position as an apostle. But then again, when it came down to qualifications how did they manage to put an old man in the apostle''s position?
''If Miss Francisca were here, I could consult her.
Allen remembered that she believed in prophecy. If so, there must be a reason. Allen regretted not asking why in the past.
The real problem was that there was only one old man there now, but he didn''t know how many more could show up if Allen showed him any hostility.
"To ess the body is to retrieve the secrets of our guild. But the legitimate spoils of this are also technically yours, sir I''ll give you something else instead."
Allen did not have enough strength to muscle his way through most situations, like a member of the Top Eight could, and he could not deny the possibility that they might bring in a stronger person than himself. He could tell just by looking at his enemys potential.
"Then what can I give you?
So Allen took a step back.
"Is there anything you want?"
"No, I didn''t really think much about it."
"In that case, I promise to ept any request for information, just once, for any information from any branch of Psyche. What do you think?"
"Well" Allen thought for a moment, then nodded. "I ept."
"Then, Ill be departing
"However."
me paused as he began to recover the body. Allen went on, undeterred.
"I''ll make the request now."
"You mean right now?
"Why, is that no good?"
"No, it is fine. I said I''d ept any request myself."
The old man wondered at Allen''s attitude, but he straightened his back as he affirmed his words.
"A few months ago, bandits raided through the underground waterways during the Thanksgiving Festival at the Reinhardts'' estate in the Kingdom of Liber." What Allen spoke of was something he had kept to himself because hed had no ce to let out this thought. "Father, no The count executed the culprit, an aristocrat, whomissioned the bandits after being dered a fallen aristocrat, but I know that''s not all. What I want is simple."
Typically, information guilds tried not to get involved in quarrels between nobles unless they had a close rtionship with the local officials. If they unintentionally interfered in nobles affairs, they could be hated by the nobles whose secrets were exposed and other powerful people who realized that their information could be sold as well.
It was also the reason why Allen had not yet been able to figure out the true identity of the intruders.
But what about now?
"I want to know the real story behind the fallen aristocratwho the real culprits were."
Could he refuse, even though he said hed tell him anything?
Everyone, from the intruders who invaded our territory to the true masters of those intruders.
Allen smiled thinly at the skinny old man, who appeared quite troubled.
Chapter 99
Chapter 99
me wore a rather perplexed expression.
He weighed in his mind the dangers of intervening in the aristocracy''s quarrels and the benefits of covering up this incident, as well as the damage that could ur in the event of going toe-to-toe with Allen.
He knew quite a lot of information, so he was able to calcte the results of this analysis immediately.
Based on the information reported to us, with just hisbat power alone, he may be able to attain a position as a member of the Top Eight in the future
Allen wasnt so strong that me couldnt take him if he requested support. However, considering his surroundings, he concluded that it was a fight that he shouldnt instigate.
Not unless the conflict was an inevitable one.
''The other side has also been working on this for quite some time.''
epting Allen''s request was the right choice here. Having finalized his judgment, me bowed his head.
Typically, we dont interfere in aristocratic quarrels. However, we''ll have to make an exception in this situation. I ept your request."
The request Allen had made was not an unreasonable one at all.
Allen was doubtful whether me would be able to meet a demand more risky than the one hed already requested, and he already didnt trust the Psyche member much.
Asking for this information was also, he thought, the best bargain he could make given the situation.
"As for the delivery of the information I''ll send someone to you once the investigation isplete. Once again, I''m sorry for the inconvenience."
me picked up the skinny, limp body to carry and bowed politely.
"With that, Ill be taking my leave."
Poof!
With that remark, he disappeared in an instant.
''I was right not to get in his way.''
Two-way spatial transportation, not one-way. And surely, while using the correct and exact coordinates Allen internally realized that he had made the right choice.
In the midst of the corpses of the remaining bandits and the faint wafting scent of blood, Allen turned his head in the direction where he felt a gaze lying upon him.
"Sir, I do believe I need a proper exnation."
There, Eliana, who had overheard his conversation with me, approached with a suspicious look.
"I didn''t mean to eavesdrop I don''t think it has anything to do with my situation. But you''ll tell me everything, right?
She said with a smile, but her eyes were full of vigor, which did not seem to bode well.
Allen sighed.
''I guess there was no point in making her faint.
Allen nodded his head, looking even more exhausted by the futility of the situation.
"I will."
But only everything he had to tell her.
* * *
Two weeks had passed since Allen returned to the Academy.
Life at the Academy had gradually regained its usual vitality.
There were still some people who couldn''t forget their deceased peers, but they were small in number, and most of the students werergely unphased.
They understood this incident was within the normal realm of possibility at the Academy.
Many people died each year.
While such arge number of casualties marked an exceptional event, it was also not unheard of in the history of the Academy.
Thus, the Academy went back to business as usual, as if nothing remarkable had ever urred. The Academy''s professors healed from their injuries, and the students returned to their studies.
The vacancy in the student poption remained, but it would soon be filled yet again.
After all, the Academy held an entrance examination every six months.
Meanwhile, it was announced that Allen had be a disciple of the Beast King. The news of the member of the Top Eight taking on a studentsomething which hadnt urred in yearssent the Academy into a frenzy.
During that time, Julius also seemed to have made his own move. Many talked of him rescuing a girl from her bullies, and punishing and getting the perpetrators expelled.
It seemed to be the work of an upperssmen rather than a freshman.
Allen didn''t think much of his actions. He only got the impression that Julius had gotten himself into something again.
However, the events of Allen''s daily life did not change.
He took sses as listed in his academic schedule, and in the evenings, he trained with the Beast King. He continued practicing his swordsmanship with Ves and made sure to stop by the library at least once a day. He never missed volunteering on the weekends, and he only showed everyone sincerity and kindness.
In this way, Allen pushed himself, as if he felt some dire need to push forward and away from something.
* * *
* * *
On one weekend morning in the midst of this busy routine, Allen was enjoying tea time, basking in the scent of the tea.
"Hmm, the scent is much richer thanst time. How did you do that?"
"It''s because I''ve practiced and improved on my dexterity since I started studying alchemy, like you rmended."
"Is that so? So with alchemy, you can change the taste of tea like this?"
Alchemists could implement their skills in various jobs, such as brewing, potion development, and tea leaf modification, but could just a few weeks of learning give one the skills to improve the depth of taste?
When Allen expressed his doubts, she replied in a hesitant tone. "It''s Well, I''ve added more special ingredients."
"What ingredients are they?"
"Fairy dust."
She blushed shyly for some reason as she said this.
Where did she get fairy dust from?
Allen thought over the ingredient he had never heard of before for a moment, but stopped once he found that nothing came to mind. It mustve just been an ingredient of alchemists, of which he had no real knowledge.
"If you have enough to spare, please keep using it. The tea is even better with a richer scent.
"Uh, it''s
"Is it a difficult material to get? Or is it expensive?
"Oh, no. Well alright. I''ll keep preparing it with the tea."
Allen gave an affirmative nod, then quietly threw questions at the woman opposite him.
"So, Princess Eliana. How long are you nning on staying?"
Eliana, who was sitting across from him and nibbling away at a snack little by little, quietly lowered said snack as she made eye contact with Allen. Then, she opened her mouth calmly, with an expression that suggested his confrontation didnt bother her one bit.
"Isnt teatime better with more people?
"No, I like to drink and think alone."
"My grandfather would quite like it if you got along with me,"
"I thought you said you weren''t interested?"
When Allen responded instantaneously, she shut her mouth and red at him.
"I made up with my grandfather. Though, there wasn''t much to reconcile.
Two weeks had passed since Eliana''s weak constitution had beenpletely cured, a fact that the Beast King had also revealed to Allen.
Hed only spoken as many words as were necessary to get the message across, but Allen could tell that he was quite satisfied on the inside.
That was why Linbelle wasnt there.
"Then why did youe all the way here to train with Linbelle? Isnt your body good to go now?
The Beast King offered to teach Linbelle since shed been taking care of Eliana. Thus, she sparred with him every weekend and was counseled on what shecked. That said, she was not his discipleshe was only receiving his teachings. It was up to her to improve her skills, but it was clear that if Allen believed in her talent, she would grow.
But why was she here when she should have been training and working on her magic?
"Before, I thought you would aim for a spot in the Top Eight if you could only improve your skills. Is that different from before?"
"That''s" She sighed and replied with aplex expression. "Sigh Yes, that''s right."
Her gray ears sunk, as her formerly confident attitude dissipated.
"I worked really hard at first. I watched my skills improve as I trained, so I couldn''t help but be motivated."
"And?"
Well, you know, maybe it''s because the blood of a member of the Top Eight runs through my veins, but I dont have the typical magical or aural limits associated with those of mixed races, and I already have the confidence to beat most mercenaries, but
Before she got better, she could make excuses. She couldn''t meet his grandfather''s expectations because she was weak. It wasn''t her fault that she couldnt do anything with her mana or her aura. However, thanks to Allens intervention, she came to a realization after her constitution recovered.
"I just hated it. It''s getting harder and harder to train, and moving my body so much doesnt really suit me.
Even if she was healthy, she wasnt interested in battle.
"The engineering I''m learning now is much more interesting to me.
Training wasn''t engineering.
She had a lot of fun, carrying out projects while forcing herself to stay up all night despite her weak body. When she developed a new invention, she couldn''t wait to test it.
"But I''m not saying I''m going to quit training I mean, its just that my priorities have changed now."
He didn''t see the same drive in her eyes as he had before.
It was only in the face of unprecedented helplessness that she escaped the shadows of her past and her feelings of inferiority.
Expression unchanged, Allen opened his mouth to respond to her, who candidly confided her feelings to him.
"Like I told you when we first met. I wanted to meet you because I was interested in your engineering talent.
She had no choice but to fall into ithe knew that with her temperament, she would never be suited to battle.
But Allen didn''t care about all that. Hed nned out their interactions only considering one thing.
What had initially attracted him to her was that she could be used as a stepping stone to connect himself to the Beast King. However, her own talent yed a role in it as well.
She could go on to change the narrative on demi-humans in the future.
He couldnt remember how many years it would take, or exactly when she was to publish her work. But that was not what he cared about.
All he needed to know was that she had created such an invention.
"Do Do you mean the same thing as you did before?" she asked with a serious look. Her yellow pupils sharpened on him, as if they would not miss any of Allen''s movements.
"What do you mean?
"That you had a deal with the Circtors to cure me."
Allen swallowed, choosing his words carefully.
When she had overheard his conversation with the Psyche member and asked for rification, Allen cleverly maneuvered the topic onto exining that he had contacted the Circtorsthat he had made a deal with a higher-up in the Circtors to ensure her treatment.
The conversation about all the apostle stuff just so happened to ur at the ce where the new apostle of the Circtors was located.
He also exined that the reason she fainted was because she rejected their pagan doctrine so strongly that she couldnt maintain consciousness during their ceremony.
When she apologized for being so stubbornly close-minded to their practices, epting and forgiving Allen''s behavior as rationally as possible.
Whatever the process hed taken getting there, Allen had fixed her lifelong weak constitution.
"I mean the same words mean the same thing, right?
Even if she had no contact with the Beast King, he visited her because of her outstanding talent. Dealing with the Circtors to treat her helped to strengthen the link he had with the Beast King. It was safe to say that they were both on the same page.
Eliana was lost in thought, as if she were thinking about a lifetime of trouble. After a moment, she opened her mouth with a determined expression.
"If thats what you really mean, then alright. I''ve never had anyone put so much effort into me before. But I get it now.
She took a deep breath and revealed her determination
"Call me when you''re ready, and I''ll go straight to your estate."
"Really?
He hadnt even brought it up yet, and she already agreed to work with him?
"Yes, you also showed me this same sincerity, so I cant help but reciprocate it, right?
Her eyes were as steady as always.
An expression of determinationunwilling to reverse a decision already made.
A smile crossed Allens face as he thought of their bright future, though he was contemting an issue in his head.
With the Sindri siblings'' high-quality cksmithing skills and Eliana''s top-notch engineering skills. Not to mention Soned''smercial capabilities, Acanderss manpower, and the religious persuasion that came with his apostolic position in Cirction.
And adding in the connections that I already made and will continue to make at the Academy
His future wouldnt hold conflicts that were quite as simple as they were now.
"Well, I look forward to working with you."
"Likewise. I look forward to working with you, too."
The two of them smiled brightly.
Without knowing that they both had different ideas of the future in their minds.
* * *
Elpis, the city home to the Academy, was not a ce where suspicious people could typically roam.
The asional idents, attacks, and spy-infiltrations that urred several times a year, however, were only possible because of the chairman.
No one could truly say that they had slipped past her prying eyes.
The chairman''s abilities wereparable to a decently-sized army, which would make even the Beast King reluctant to deal with her.
In that case, then what if someone as powerful as a member of the Top Eight were to try to invade?
If the intruder was uniquely superior in terms of stealth and assassination, would she be able to notice?
"Hm, it''s been a long time since I''ve been here.
The beams atop a lighthouse did not shine upon whaty beneath the tower itself.
The Queen of Darkness snuck into the city without anyone noticing.
It was something that no one, not even the chairman, knew of. Since the world now knew of her existence, she needed space to rest, gather information, and heal her wounds.
Just as she was about to disappear, she saw movement.
"Acanders, since weve arrived sote in the evening, let''s tell him that we arrived today and n to meet with him tomorrow.
"Good idea. Itll give us some time to let off steam. Soned, which inn is better
"In my experience
In what appeared to be a small group of merchants, she could make out the movement of a hound running away after biting its own owner''s neck, albeit quite clumsily.
"Oh, theres somebody here?"
She changed her ns.
Rather than acting alone, hiding under the shadow of a group of others would be much morefortable.
If she could observe their movements, shed find her target soon enough.
The shadow stealthily melted into their vicinity.
Chapter 100
Chapter 100
Acanders and Soned finally arrived in Elpis. Allen was able to meet with them promptly the next morning after hearing news of their arrival. Since there was a school rule that outsiders couldn''t enter into the Academys territory, Allen rented out a room on the top-floor of a decent inn.
"It''s been a long time, sir. Your great name is well known around here.
Soned reunited with him, still showing a pale smile with a warm face.
"It''s very nice to see you again, too. Its about time that you came up.
"Haha, is that so?"
"Yes, but we can discuss work-rted matters after chatting for a bit. Let''s talk How''s your son? I hope hes recovering well from his curse.
When Allen wanted to put the important conversation aside, Soned gently began to talk to him about his recent situation.
"Hes been learning the trade from me since he returned to health. Im not sure if hed be awake at this hour.
"It must be early in the morning over there, right?"
"Surely. He probably isnt awake yet. In a little while, though, it will be time to help Karik with his work, learning firsthand the ways of being a merchant."
"Oh, thats rightwasn''t it Karik who originally wanted toe to the city?"
At Allen''s question, Soned proudly parted his lips with the face of an experienced merchant. It would have been his first time, so we decided that I should be the one toe instead. You never know when something unique might ur. Going up to the city for the first time requires the prudence of those in their golden years, not the boldness of youth. Someone like him, of course, whose greatest worry was that he lost more hair every time he woke up in the morning.
Sonedughed cheerfully as he said this. His expression revealed that he seemed to be better off than thest time theyd meta good oue.
Isn''t it natural for a person in power like you to take care of him, even if hes so much older? Hmph, when was thest time youve heard someone be so condescending to someone who wrote them such an impactful letter of rmendation.
Allen snubbed her words neatly.
He just didnt have to answer questions that he didnt need to.
"You seem to be doing well Then what about you, Acanders?"
"I dont think I quite have anything to say. Life now is better than when I was a drunk. Although I still havent been able to find any trace of my father." Acanders appeared to be less sharp than he had been before, but Allen could make a fairly educated guess that he was just hiding his acuity.
"Really? We can talk about this a little moreter. It''s only a guess, but I think I''ve found a clue."
Someone is listening, Allen''s voice rang in Acanders''s head. One of his threads quietly reached out and began to fill his body, first upying his feet.
"Is that so?"
Without a single change in his expression, Acanders recited the words that Allen fed to him.
"Yes, but such an uninteresting conversation really only ever makes you feel so drained after, dont you think?
"You''re right," Soned responded slyly. Even he had caught on, feeling the change in the atmosphere.
Allen gave orders to Linbelle and Inellia. "Inellia, could you brew up a pot of that spirit tea from before? I havent been able to forget the scent I smelledst time.
Block off the sound in the area so that no voice can escape with the spirit, he ordered mentally.
"And Linbelle, would you go down to the kitchen and grab some other refreshments If theres none there, could you go out to the store and find some for us?"
Make sure there are no suspicious people around here, and look around as carefully as possible. Nobody can overhear us here.
Inellia''s expressions were naturally very simr in both situations, so she just nodded as if she had only heard one of his orders. "Okay, I''ll have it ready in a minute, so please wait a moment."
"Yes, sir. I''ll find the gentlemen some refreshments." Seeing Inellia act so naturally was normal. However, even Allen was surprised to see Linbelle act so calmly, to the point where he almost questioned the transparency of her typical demeanor.
Linbelle and Inellia were away for a while.
"Then lets continue. Oh, Acanders, I heard you obtained a very rare drink?
"Yes, Mr. Soned was there at that time, so Im certain that he would remember it, too. I was able to get this ancient medicine from an elf I know
"Ah! You mean back then? I never wouldve thought of using herbs to make that kind of alcohol
He didnt want to use his thread to cover the floor quite yet, so he started his escapade through the room by climbing up the wall.
When Inellia came back to serve the tea, they talked about trivial matters for a good ten minutes and more, before suddenly beginning to talk about the slight hardships they had suffered over thest few months.
"Sir, how much effort does it take to persuade those about to enter into an altercation to drop their weapons
The door clicked closed. Linbelle had returned.
At that very moment, a thread encircled the door through which she entered. The whole room was now covered with Allen''s thread.
Has anyone bugged the room? Or any other ces nearby?
Yes, the walls downstairs and outside, too. I checked all the people within 100 meters as well, but there was no one suspicious.
All of the sound around them vanished. As if it was once unbearably noisy, the room had been now mired in silence.
* * *
* * *
Allen turned his head for a moment and looked at Inellia. They both sighed and nodded at each other. "You can say it now," he said.
"Sir, what the hell is going on?
Soned, who had caught on and adapted to the situation by just feeling the atmosphere without saying a word to Allen, wore a serious look. "Are we being bugged? Or do you think we''re being targeted in some way
"First of all, may I ask you a few questions? When Allen asked this with a serious look, Soned stepped back without a word ofint.
"Go ahead."
"Did you find the magic book with the red cover that I asked you to inquire about?"
"I did not."
"What about anyrge carriage processions, or people who you''ve never seen before moving in your territory without leaving much trace behind?"
"Just as you asked, I checked with my personal connections as much as I could, but most of them were simply vagrants or bandits. Nothing that appeared to be a merchant group or anything like that."
Allen paused for a moment before asking Acanders, who was lost in thought, "Have you ever seen anyone sneaking into the manor in the Dukes territory, Acanders?"
"Yes, my men reported a few instances."
"Did you follow where they went after they left?"
"Yes, but they all managed to disappear at some point, with all search efforts ending in vain. The others were all local residents of the area.
Allen recalled all of what had happened so far, both within and outside of his manor at home.
At some point, there were servants and maids who he had never seen before that appeared by his father''s side, servants and maids who he had never met; an administration maintained while consuming a good deal of their own assets, despite how clear it was that such unsustainable practices would lead to an insufficient budget; and Julius, who was able to resolve events that appeared out of nowhere like in novels, wherever he went.
He also thought of the fact that there were Circtors able to employ spatial movement, and they were able to appoint apostles freely now.
me didnt think that Allen had gathered so much information, so he just moved forward with his ns at that time, but
''I pissed them off.
That was his mistake.
Hed angered a group that he hadnt grasped the influence of before his regression, secret forces helping out Julius from his father''s side.
He found a clue here.
"So sir, if youve finished going over it in your head, could you please exin?"
"I was thinking the same thing."
Allen smiled as he looked at them, who had been waiting for him to sort out his thoughts without any impatience. "Yes, of course you should know. It''s about time I told you."
For months, they had gathered power by pushing forward and finishing their reports without betraying Allen, all the while without his presence. It was safe to say that they all had at least built a little bit of trust between each other.
''No, if I have to keep even this small of a secret, therell be nothing but failure in store.
That was what Allen felt from the bottom of his heart. If he was so worried about telling them his true thoughts about such a small matter, how would he be able to trust them to act as a part of his master n to take revenge against Julius?
"Have you ever doubted my orders, felt any doubt at all?
Soned pondered Allens question for a moment, but Acanders did not. "Yes, there are a few instances thate to mind. But I decided in the moment that it wasn''t something that I wanted to bring up without the trust of both sides."
No matter how fierce the battle for session may have been with his younger brother, Allen and Julius had a good rtionship overall. There were rumors spreading around the Academy that they had a wonderful fraternal rtionship. Yet Allen was gathering together those who held a grudge against Julius and watching over their homes, as if he were wary of his own family?
"To be honest, I was worried that I would only be a temporary stepping stone to you." Acanders did not hide his thoughts, surmising that the reason Allen had brought up the topic was to test their ability to show him their sincere feelings.
Acknowledging Acanders''s mindset and response, Soned sighed and nodded. "Yes, I felt the same way. Us merchants, were sensitive to rumors. To be honest, I doubted if there could even be a ck market carrying all these magic books if merchants such as ourselves had never heard of it."
As they revealed their true thoughts, they couldnt help let them all pour out.
"If this continues, your position as the sessor will be confirmed, but even if doing all this was to umte some power for yourself, it was difficult to guess at why you gathered the people that you did.
As Allen listened to them, he became more and more vignt on the inside. If he were to admit that hed regressed, he would have topletely abandon the illusion that he would have otherwise had.
Knowledge of the ce where I became an apostle made its rounds within a day. If so, then I should assume that at least some of my track record so far, if not all, has been revealed to a certain extent.
Allen had snuck out of the city, so it was clear that they had followed the Circtors tracks to discover his whereabouts. There was a high probability that someone had noticed because there was an infiltrator in the Circtors, or because someone had been monitoring them from the outset.
Fortunately, they didnt catch onto everything, but
It was obvious that even this amount of information would have reached Julius and lit the sparks of doubt in his mind.
''It''s a shame that I dont have any intelligence organization under my control for now.
A pity he couldnt estimate their exact size. It would have been much easier toe up with countermeasures had he known that much.
Within Allen was the need he had felt from the time hedmissioned me to find the culprit whomitted the crimes at the thanksgiving festival. He felt it more keenly than before.
Inellia was in charge of ten or more people alone, and she knew that it would take time to raise the men under Acanders. However, he couldn''t help but regret the fact that he had no choice but to let go of his control in the process during the intermittent period.
''I''d like to make an offer to the Queen of Darkness, no matter the cost.
However, she must have already fled somewhere, so that was impossible.
"Before I exin everything, I have to tell you something first.
The fundamental reason why Allen was doing any of this.
"Where should I start hm Yes. This is a good ce to start. From before the time when Julius was considered to be a scoundrel.
Inellia and Linbelle had already heard this tale, and Ves, too, had heard the run-down.
"Us two brothers of the Reinhart family, were not brothers the way we once were.
Thus began the story of the two brothers, deprived of their time together by demons.
* * *
"Please carefully think it over and give me an answer. I''ll give you as much time as youd like."
The door clicked shut behind him.
It wasn''t untilte at night that the whole story had concluded.
Allen moved to another room, leaving Soned and Acanders to think. Inellia and Linbelle decided to sit in the next room, not waiting on him for the night.
He wanted time to think by himself today.
Hed also left his artifacts with telepathic functions over with Ves, so they would be able to talk to each other.
Now was the right time for him to reflect alone. Itd allow them the room to think as well.
Step, step, step.
The dark, sunken hallway made him ruminate. Or at least, that was what Allen thought.
Demon or whatever, he only spoke of what he believed he understood.
"I''m getting used to all this since I keep talking about it.
In other words, so many people had be involved in his and his younger brother''s affairs. Now he couldn''t stop it, even if he wanted to.
Allenughed at the situationleaving two people to rest as if it were something considerate.
"What shall I think about?"
Allen knew they would ept his story, even before telling them the conclusion. The fact that Acanders and Soned were lost in thought proved that there was potential in their rtionship. Until now, it had been impossible to deny their increasingly strong rtionship with Allen. Their business and their rtionships with the people around him had advanced so well that it was toote to back out now.
To think he knew all of that and yet spoke as though he cared so much.
Allen suddenly felt that he had changed, if only a little.
There was no need to say why.
''Evan, Ariel, William.''
Was he doing well? Or, at least, was he doing right? It was a useless philosophical argument that couldnt be answered.
However, there was nothing better than thinking about an unanswerable problem to pass the time.
Allen turned the door handle.
Click.
It wouldn''t hurt to sink into a philosophical quagmire tonight.
He copsed into an exceptionally inky corner of the already dark roomso dark, as if something was sucking all the light away.
Had even the light of the moon vanished? Allen''s muscles quickly adjusted themselves into a defensive position. He turned around to exit the room. No, he was trying to escape.
However, the goosebumps rose on Allen''s neck, and as he let out a small breath, a voice spoke.
"You have quite the sense of humor, kiddo."
The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and
continue reading tomorrow, everyone!